Research progress on valgus impacted proximal humeral fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To review the advancement made in the understanding of valgus impacted proximal humeral fracture (PHF).@*METHODS@#The domestic and foreign literature about the valgus impacted PHF was extensively reviewed and the definition, classification, pathological features, and treatment of valgus impacted PHFs were summarized.@*RESULTS@#PHF with a neck shaft angle ≥160° is recognized as a valgus impacted PHF characterized by the preservation of the medial epiphyseal region of the humeral head, which contributes to maintenance of the medial periosteum's integrity after fracture and reduces the occurrence of avascular necrosis. Therefore, the valgus impacted PHF has a better prognosis when compared to other complex PHFs. The Neer classification designates it as a three- or four-part fracture, while the AO/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF) categorizes it as type C (C1.1). In the management of the valgus impacted PHF, the selection between conservative and surgical approaches is contingent upon the patient's age and the extent of fracture displacement. While conservative treatment offers the advantage of being non-invasive, it is accompanied by limitations such as the inability to achieve anatomical reduction and the potential for multiple complications. Surgical treatment includes open reduction combined with steel wire or locking plate and/or non-absorbable suture, transosseous suture technology, and shoulder replacement. Surgeons must adopt personalized treatment strategies for each patient with a valgus impacted PHF. Minimally invasive surgery helps to preserve blood supply to the humeral head, mitigate the likelihood of avascular necrosis, and reduce postoperative complications of bone and soft tissue. For elderly patients with severe comminuted and displaced fractures, osteoporosis, and unsuitable internal fixation, shoulder joint replacement is the best treatment option.@*CONCLUSION@#Currently, there has been some advancement in the classification, vascular supply, and management of valgus impacted PHF. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to assess the clinical safety, biomechanical stability, and indication of minimally invasive technology.

EVALUATION OF OUTCOME OF PROXIMAL HUMERUS FRACTURES MANAGED WITH PHILOS PLATE

INTRODUCTION: Proximal humeral fractures account for 4 to 5 percentage of all fractures.minimally displaced can be managed non-operatively in adults. Displaced and unstable fractures should be treated surgically to achieve painless shoulder and good range of movement. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: Our study Is to evaluate the clinical, functional and radiological result of operative proximal humerus fractures managed PHILOS Plating. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 26 patients with displaced proximal humeral fractures that were treated by PHILOS plating between June 2018 to December 2019 were included in this study. The Constant-Murley score (CMS) was used to evaluate the outcome. RESULT: Out of 26 patients 9 were male and 17 were female. The mean age was 52 years. The mean surgical time was 88 min. The mean fracture union time was 11.5 weeks. Outcome was excellent in 17 cases, Good in 6 and Fair in 3 cases. CONCLUSION: Fixation with PHILOS is associated with good to excellent outcomes. It gives high rate of union, good range of movement and has minimal complications.

Comparative study on effectiveness of ultrasound- and arthrography-assisted Kirschner wire fixation in treatment of Jakob type Ⅱ lateral condylar humerus fractures in children / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the effectiveness of ultrasound- and arthrography-assisted Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of Jakob type Ⅱ lateral condylar humerus fracture (LCHF) in children.@*METHODS@#A clinical data of 101 children with Jakob type Ⅱ LCHF, who met the selection criteria and were admitted between April 2021 and April 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 47 cases were treated with ultrasound-assisted Kirschner wire fixation (group A), and 54 cases with arthrography-assisted surgery (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, cause of injury, fracture side, and disease duration between groups (P>0.05). Intraoperative fluoroscopy times, operation time, and hospital stay, Flynn elbow joint function score, and postoperative complications were recorded and compared between groups. X-ray examination was performed to observe the healing of fracture, and measure the carrying angle and the shaft-condylar angle (SCA).@*RESULTS@#The success rate of closed reduction was significantly higher in group A than in group B (P<0.05), and the intraoperative fluoroscopy times was significantly less in group A than in group B (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in operation time and hospital stay between groups (P>0.05). All children in both groups were followed up 12-18 months, with an average of 13.6 months. X-ray reexamination showed that the fractures of both groups healed, and the difference in healing time was not significant (P>0.05). At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in carrying angle and SCA between unaffected side and affected side in both groups and between groups A and B in affected side (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in Flynn elbow joint function score between groups (P>0.05). There were 18 cases of lateral spurs formation in group A, 1 case of pinning infection and 26 cases of lateral spurs formation in group B, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of the above complications (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Compared with the arthrography, the ultrasound-assisted Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of Jakob type Ⅱ LCHF in children can avoid the open reduction and decrease the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy, and obtain the good effectiveness.

Short-term effectiveness of transverse antecubital incision for failed closed reduction of Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humerus fractures in children / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the short-term effectiveness of transverse antecubital incision in the treatment of failed closed reduction of Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humeral fractures (SHFs) in children.@*METHODS@#Between July 2020 and April 2022, 20 children with Gartland type Ⅲ SHFs who failed in closed reduction were treated with internal and external condylar crossing Kirschner wire fixation through transverse antecubital incision. There were 9 boys and 11 girls with an average age of 3.1 years (range, 1.1-6.0 years). The causes of injuries were fall in 12 cases and fall from height in 8 cases. The time from admission to operation ranged from 7 to 18 hours, with an average of 12.4 hours. The healing of the incision and the occurrence of complications such as nerve injury and cubitus varus were observed after operation; the elbow flexion and extension range of motion after removing the gypsum, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up were recorded and compared, as well as the elbow flexion and extension and forearm rotation range of motion at last follow-up between healthy and affected sides; the Baumann angle was measured on the X-ray film, and the fracture healing was observed. At last follow-up, the effectiveness was evaluated according to the Flynn elbow function evaluation criteria.@*RESULTS@#All incisions healed by first intention, and there was no skin necrosis, scar contracture, ulnar nerve injury, and cubitus varus. Postoperative pain occurred in the radial-dorsal thumb in 2 cases. The gypsum was removed and elbow flexion and extension exercises were started at 2-4 weeks (mean, 2.7 weeks) after operation, and the Kirschner wire was removed at 4-5 weeks (mean, 4.3 weeks). All the 20 patients were followed up 6-16 months, with an average of 12.4 months. The fracture healing time was 4-5 weeks, with an average of 4.5 weeks, and there was no complication such as delayed healing and myositis ossificans. The flexion and extension range of motion of the elbow joint gradually improved after operation, and there were significant differences between the time after removing the gypsum, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up ( P<0.017). There was no significant difference in the flexion and extension of the elbow joint and the forearm rotation range of motion between the healthy and affected sides at last follow-up ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in Baumann angle between the time of immediate after operation, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up ( P>0.05). According to Flynn elbow function evaluation standard, 16 cases were excellent and 4 cases were good, the excellent and good rate was 100%.@*CONCLUSION@#The treatment of Gartland type Ⅲ SHFs in children with failed closed reduction by internal and external condylar crossing Kirschner wire fixation through transverse antecubital incision has the advantages of complete soft tissue hinge behind the fracture for easy reduction and wire fixation, small incision, less complications, fast fracture healing, early functional recovery, reliable reduction and fixation, and can obtain satisfactory results.

A study of Proximal Humerus Fractures treated by Locking Compression plating

Background: The treatment of proximal humerus fractures is always a challenge for the Orthopedic surgeon. Proximal humeral fractures are a regular presence in clinics. In the past, the standard treatment method was conserva?ve. The results and func?onal outcomes, on the other hand, were not favorable. The func?onal outcomes have been known to improve a?er the development of locking compression plates. The purpose of this study was to see how func?onal proximal humerus fractures were treated with locking compression plates fared. Methods: This cross-sec?onal interven?onal prospec?ve study was carried out in the Department of Orthopedics, Prathima Ins?tute of Medical Sciences. The study included all adult pa?ents with closed two-part and three-part proximal humerus fractures who were reported within a week a?er the incident. Based on the sample size calcula?ons and inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of n=35 pa?ents were included in the study. Pa?ents were followed up for 12months a?er surgery using a typical surgical method with a locking compression plate. Results: n=35 pa?ents out of which n=19(54.2%) were males and n=16 (45.7%) were females. The distribu?on based on age involved in pa?ents with fractures showed equal preponderance among 31-35 years and 20-25 years with n=9(25.71%).Neer’s classifica?on of fractures of proximal humerus was followed in this study. Most of the pa?ents in n=25 (71.42%) cases were having Neer’s Two-part fractures and three-part fractures were found in n=8(22.8%) and four-part in n=2(5.7%). The overall results in the study were 65.71% of pa?ents had excellent results,20% had good results,8.5% had sa?sfactory results and 5.7% had poor results. Conclusion: Locking plates are a preferable therapeu?c choice for proximal humerus fractures, par?cularly when the bone quality is poor and the fracture is comminuted. Complica?on rates can be reduced by using good surgical techniques and selec?ng the right situa?ons. Proximal humeral internal locking plates con?nue to provide strong overall func?onality.

Double plate technique and tendon fixation of long head of biceps brachii in treating Neer 3 to 4 partial fractures of proximal humerus / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore clinical effect of double plate technique in treating Neer 3 to 4 partial fractures of proximal humerus.@*METHODS@#From May 2018 to December 2020, 38 patients with proximal humeral classified to Neer 3 to 4 partial fractures were treated with double plate technique and long head tendon fixation of biceps brachii, including 23 males and 15 females, aged from 41 to 89 years old with an average of (67.00 ± 9.76) years old;23 patients classified to Neer 3 fracture, 15 classified to Neer 4 fracture;the time from injury to operation ranged from 5 to 12 days with an average of (8.00±2.86) days. Degree of pain was evaluated by numerical rating scale(NRS) on the third day after operation; change of height of humeral head and angle of humeral neck stem were measured and compared between 2 days and 1 year after operation. Neer score was used to evaluate recovery of shoulder joint after operation at 1 year after operation.@*RESULTS@#All 38 patients were followed up for 12 to 19 months with an average of (14.00±1.59) months. NRS score at 3 days after operation was (1.95±0.73) points. Fracture healing time ranged from 2.2 to 3.2 months with an average of(2.60±0.27) months. There were no significant difference in the height of humeral head and angle of humeral neck trunk between two days and 1 year after operation(P>0.05). Four Neer 4 fracture patients occurred absorption of greater tubercle of humerus and partial cystic change of humeral head, but the activity function of shoulder joint was good. Postoperative Neer score at 1 year was 89.50±5.19, and 20 patients got excellent results, 16 good, and 2 moderate.@*CONCLUSION@#Double plate technique and long head tendon fixation of biceps brachii were used to treat Neer 3 to 4 fractures of proximal humerus has good clinical effect, and postoperative pain was mild, without special instruments.

Bone quality and fracture line morphology of the posterior medial humeral calcar in proximal humerus fractures / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the relationship between fracture line morphology, bone quality and fracture type in the posterior medial humeral talus of proximal humerus fractures.Methods:Retrospective analysis of CT data of patients with proximal humeral fractures diagnosed in our hospital from June 2020 to June 2021. Based on 3D reconstruction, the fracture line of the posterior medial humeral calcar was described, substituted into the proximal humeral template to depict the fracture map;and the coordinates of the turning point of the posterior medial fracture line were recorded, and the most concentrated coordinate interval was displayed using Matlab heat mapscript, substituted into the proximal humeral template to mark the area of concentration of the turning point of the fracture line. And according to the inclination angle of the humeral head to establish internal and external rotation and normal group, three groups of humeral distance posterior medial bone density, bone thickness and fracture horizontal line angle were performed and recorded by unordered multicategorical Logistic regression analysis.Results:A total of 62 patients with proximal humeral fractures were included; 21 (34%) were internally turned, 24 (39%) were externally turned and 17 (27%) were normal. Inversion: bone density 0.59±0.12 g/cm 3, bone thickness 2.33±0.48 mm, fracture horizontal line angle 4.54°±14.13°. Normal: Bone density 0.57±0.15 g/cm 3, bone thickness 2.60±0.33 mm, fracture level angle -1.87°±9.98°. Ectropion: bone density 0.62±0.11 g/cm 3, bone thickness 2.69±0.54 mm, fracture horizontal angle -5.64°±20.03°. Epiphyseal extension occurs most often posteriorly and medially, with the fracture line turning point located posterior to the greater tuberosity. Unordered multicategorical Logistic regression of the data showed that: inversion fracture horizontal line angle ( β=0.06, P=0.018), statistically significant, OR=1.06 [95% CI (1.00, 1.12)]; bone thickness ( β=-2.02, P=0.041), statistically significant, OR=0.13 [95% CI (0.03, 0.71)]; bone density ( β=-0.43, P=0.887), not statistically significant; none of the ectropion patterns were statistically significant ( P>0.05). Conclusion:The trend of the fracture line and bone thickness of the posterior medial humeral calcar are factors that influence internal rotation of the humeral head. The incidence of internal rotation is positively correlated with the upward trend of the fracture line and negatively correlated with the thickness of the bone. The fracture line turning point is most often located posterior to the greater tuberosity.

Correlations between subacromial impingement syndrome and acromial morphology and subacromial intervals after surgery of proximal humerus fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlations between subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) and acromial morphology and subacromial intervals after surgery of proximal humerus fracture.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted of the 62 patients with proximal humerus fracture who had been treated by internal fixation with a locking titanium plate from December 2014 to December 2019 at Department of Orthopedics, People's Hospital of Gaoming District. They were 40 men and 22 women, with an average age of 53.5 years (from 35 to 71 years). By the Neer classification, there were 38 three-part and 24 four-part fractures. The incidence of SIS was determined by Nikolaus's diagnostic criteria. The patients were divided into a SIS group and a non-SIS group. The acromial morphology was observed and the subacromial intervals [acromio-greater tuberosity of humerus interval (AGI) and acromio-plate interval (API)] were measured on postoperative X-ray films. The correlations were analyzed between them and SIS.Results:All patients completed treatments and follow-ups from 3 to 15 months (average, 10 months). There was no incision infection or internal fixation failure. There were 18 cases in the SIS group and 44 ones in the non-SIS group. In the SIS group, 3 cases had type Ⅰ acromion while 15 ones type Ⅱ or type Ⅲ acromion; in the non-SIS group, 20 cases had type Ⅰ acromion while 24 ones type Ⅱ or type Ⅲ acromion. The proportion of patients with type Ⅱ or type Ⅲ acromion in the SIS group was significantly higher than that in the non-SIS group ( P<0.05). AGI and API in the SIS group were (11.6±2.1) mm and (14.2±2.4) mm, significantly shorter than those in the non-SIS group [(15.7±2.8) mm and (18.5±3.2) mm] ( P<0.05). Conclusions:SIS is a common complication after surgery of proximal humerus fracture. Abnormal acromial morphology (type Ⅱ or type Ⅲ acromion), poor fracture reduction (reduced AGI), and high placement of a titanium plate (reduced API) may be all important factors leading to SIS.

Pectoralis Major Tendon as Landmark for Proximal Humerus Surgery: A Cadaveric Study on the Adult Filipino Population

@#OBJECTIVE: It is common to get lost during a comminuted proximal humerus surgery, and the pectoralis major insertion is always a constant. Therefore, this study aimed to do a cadaveric study on the Filipino population to assess the distance from the pectoralis major tendon to the top of the humeral head (PMT) as a reference during proximal humerus surgery. METHODS: This study dissected the shoulders of cadavers. The distance from the pectoralis major tendon insertion to the top of the humeral head (PMT) was measured using a caliper. This PMT distance was also correlated to the cadaver's height and sex. RESULTS: This study dissected 110 shoulders (55 cadavers | 24 females, 31 males). The median PMT was 5.40 cm for males and 4.90 cm for females, with a combined value of 5.40 cm overall. There was a direct and moderate correlation between the PMT with overall height. Height and PMT of both the left and right shoulder were significantly longer among males compared to females. The study showed that for every centimeter increase in the height of males, there was a corresponding 0.02 cm increase in the PMT, adding the constant factor of 1.83. A corresponding 0.04 cm increase in the PMT for females added the constant factor of -0.81. CONCLUSION; The pectoralis major tendon insertion is a consistent landmark that can accurately restore humeral length when reconstructing complex proximal humerus fractures where landmarks are otherwise lost because of comminution.

Pectoralis Major Tendon as Landmark for Proximal Humerus Surgery: A Cadaveric Study on the Adult Filipino Population

@#OBJECTIVE: It is common to get lost during a comminuted proximal humerus surgery, and the pectoralis major insertion is always a constant. Therefore, this study aimed to do a cadaveric study on the Filipino population to assess the distance from the pectoralis major tendon to the top of the humeral head (PMT) as a reference during proximal humerus surgery. METHODS: This study dissected the shoulders of cadavers. The distance from the pectoralis major tendon insertion to the top of the humeral head (PMT) was measured using a caliper. This PMT distance was also correlated to the cadaver's height and sex. RESULTS: This study dissected 110 shoulders (55 cadavers | 24 females, 31 males). The median PMT was 5.40 cm for males and 4.90 cm for females, with a combined value of 5.40 cm overall. There was a direct and moderate correlation between the PMT with overall height. Height and PMT of both the left and right shoulder were significantly longer among males compared to females. The study showed that for every centimeter increase in the height of males, there was a corresponding 0.02 cm increase in the PMT, adding the constant factor of 1.83. A corresponding 0.04 cm increase in the PMT for females added the constant factor of -0.81. CONCLUSION; The pectoralis major tendon insertion is a consistent landmark that can accurately restore humeral length when reconstructing complex proximal humerus fractures where landmarks are otherwise lost because of comminution.

Functional Outcome and Complications in Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures Operated with Proximal Humerus Locking Plate

@#Introduction: Controversies exist in treatment of proximal humerus fractures as treatment options vary greatly from conservative management, closed pinning, stacked intramedullary nails, plating and hemi-arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to study the fracture patterns of each case and document the functional outcome and complications post-operative in the management of proximal humerus fractures operated with proximal humerus plate. Materials and Methods: Thirty five patients with closed proximal humerus fractures, above 18 years old, admitted in our tertiary care hospital during the study period were enrolled. Patients underwent open reduction internal fixation with proximal humerus locking plate under general anaesthesia. Post-operative patients were assessed using Constant and DASH scores. Complications were recorded. Results: In our study the absolute Constant score of the study population increases at three months and six months and was found to be significant. Mean Constant score for 4- part fractures was 45.6 which were inferior as compared to 2-part and 3-part fractures (43.1 and 44.6, respectively). The mean Constant score at six months was 51.80 +/- 6.71. All three types of proximal humerus fractures showed significant improvement in the mean DASH score over our study period of six months and was found to be significant. Mean DASH score at six months was 27.97+/-12.84. Out of the 35 cases in the study two had complications. One had implant failure (Neer’s type 3, 60-year-old female) and one had varus collapse (Neer’s type 3, 45-year-old male). Conclusion: Due to angular stability and effective maintenance of the intraoperative fracture reduction during follow-up period, early post-operative mobilisation is possible which helps the patient to attain better shoulder range of motion and return to activity faster.

Outcome analysis of extraarticular distal humerus locking plate for fresh fractures of humerus shaft

Background: The complex anatomy of distal humerus with proximity of radial nerve make the exposure and fixation of these fractures difficult. The standard technique of plate osteosynthesis consider at least eight cortices hold in both distal and proximal ends. Obeying these principles becomes difficult in distal humerus fractures. These difficulties have been overcome with the use of anatomical extra-articular distal humerus plate which has more hole density in the distal part with 3.5 mm screws for greater hold in distal part.Methods: A prospective study was carried out at Institute of Medical Sciences BHU Trauma Centre for 19 cases of distal third fracture excluding open fractures of patients between 18-68 years who attended our OPD or Emergency from June 2017 to July 2019. All patients were operated with the triceps-reflecting modified posterior approach. Regular follow-up was done to evaluate elbow functionality, fracture union, secondary displacement, non-union, implant failure and any complications; Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS) was used for the final functional assessment.Results: Fourteen 73.6% male and 5 (26.3%) female patients with mean age 41 years constituted the study group, who had an average follow-up of 17.1 months. Preoperatively one patient had radial nerve palsy (neuropraxia) who recovered completely 3 months after surgery. Overall, 18 (94.7%) patients were adjudged to have complete radiological union within 14 weeks; Mean flexion achieved was 134±11.5 (range 90–140). Average MEPS at the latest follow-up was 94.7±7.5.Conclusions: Extra-articular fractures of distal humerus can be satisfactorily treated with the use of single anatomically pre-contoured locking compression plate with excellent elbow functional range of motion and union rates.

Locking plate in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures involving humeral calcar: Effective support, complications and functional recovery / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Saving the humeral head is a challenge when the proximal humerus is fracture in orthopedic trauma, and how to obtain medial column support is a hot topic in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the general concept, clinical significance and function, the common injury mechanism of humeral calcar, and the progress using locking plate so as to improve the clinicians' understanding for the humeral calcar and to reduce the occurrence of surgical complications. METHODS: From 2004 to 2019, Wanfang, CNKI, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, and Springer Link about the treatment and research progress of proximal medial wall of the humerus were searched by the first author. The key words were "proximal humeral fracture, Philos, intermedial screw, calcar screw, fibular allograft, middle support" in English, and "proximal humeral fracture, humeral spur, medial column, plate, fibular allograft" in Chinese. The references were retrieved by hand. Finally, 51 studies were used for review according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The range of the humeral calcar region is still unclear. There is no uniform classification standard for fractures involving the humeral calcar region. X-ray films show that calcar fracture patterns are often inconsistent with the actual fracture situation, which is often a complex fracture. Lack of understanding and paying litter attention to the humeral calcar region is the main reason of iatrogenic injury and the failure to get a good repair. (2) Treatment using the locking plate is still the preferred method for proximal humerus fracture. Meanwhile, it is a feasible method that using the screw, the allogeneic iliac bone graft, the bone cement or the medial plate to reconstruct the medial column if there is a "repairable medial wall". Getting anatomical reduction of the internal wall and effective support of the medial column during operation can help to reduce postoperative complications. However, the use of the medial buttress plate requires further research to verify. It is critical important to repair the rotator cuff for the medial column support. (3) The range of the humeral calcar region needs to be unified. Understanding the humerus calcar is essential for the treatment of proximal humeral fracture. Only by mastering the fracture mode of the humerus calcar and choosing the most appropriate surgical procedure before surgery, meanwhile, achieving anatomical reduction of the medial wall and the effective support of the medial column during operation can reduce the postoperative complications of the fracture. Repairing of the rotator cuff carefully during operation is indispensable for patients to obtain better shoulder function.

Fractura compleja de codo / Complex elbow fracture

Resumen: Las fracturas de codo son secundarias a traumatismos de baja y alta energía, afectan el extremo distal del húmero, olécranon, cabeza radial o una combinación de las anteriores. Las fracturas complejas de codo dificultan la reducción y su posterior fijación, lo que representa un reto para el ortopedista. Es esencial el uso de auxiliares diagnósticos como la tomografía axial computarizada para su diagnóstico y posterior tratamiento. En la actualidad, las nuevas tendencias en la fijación de las mismas y los diversos implantes con los que se cuenta pueden mejorar el pronóstico del paciente. Se presentan dos casos clínicos de fracturas complejas de codo tratadas mediante osteosíntesis.

Abstract: Elbow fractures are secondary to low or high energy trauma affecting the distal humerus, olecranon, radial head or a combination of the above. Complex fractures of the elbow complicate the reduction and its subsequent fixation representing a real challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. It is essential the use of diagnostic aids such as computerized axial tomography for diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Currently new trends in the fixation of the same and the various implants with which it is counted, can improve improve the patient's prognosis. We present two clinical cases of complex elbow fractures treated by osteosynthesis.

Late Presentation of Paediatric Pink Pulseless Supracondylar Fracture of Humerus: A Case Report

@#Supracondylar humeral fracture is the most common elbow injury in children. It may be associated with a vascular injury in nearly 20% of the cases with a pink pulseless limb. We present a unique case of a paediatric pink pulseless supracondylar humeral fracture, seen late, on the 16th-day post-trauma. Open reduction, cross Kirschner wiring, and brachial artery exploration and repair were performed, and the patient recovered well. Early open reduction and exploration of the brachial artery with or without prior CT angiography was a safe approach in treating patients who presented at 16 days.

Treatment of distal humerus fracture with unexposed ulnar nerve medial elbow incision and anatomical locking compression plate / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of unexposed ulnar nerve medial elbow incision, open reduction and internal fixation of anatomical locking compression plate (LCP) for distal humerus fractures. Methods: Fourteen patients with distal humerus fracture were treated between January 2014 and June 2017. There were 5 males and 9 females, aged 18-85 years (mean, 65.5 years). The causes of injury included falling from height in 12 cases and traffic accident in 2 cases, all were closed fractures. Fractures were classified according to the AO/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF): 3 cases of type A2, 2 cases of type A3, 4 cases of type B2, 2 cases of type C1, 2 cases of type C2, and 1 case of type C3; without ulnar nerve damage. The time from injury to operation was 4-15 days, with an average of 7 days. The type B2 fractures were treated with unexposed ulnar nerve elbow medial incision and anatomic LCP internal fixation, the rest patients were all treated with unexposed ulnar nerve medial plus conventional lateral approach and bilateral LCP internal fixation. Results: The operation time was 50-140 minutes (mean, 80 minutes), and the intraoperative blood loss was 20-200 mL (mean, 70 mL). There was no blood vessels or nerve damage during operation. All incisions healed by first intension, and no incision infection occurred. All the 14 cases were followed up 9-24 months (mean, 13 months). X-ray films showed that all fractures healed within 4 months without complications such as nonunion and osteomyelitis. No ulnar nerve injury, cubitus varus deformity, and ossifying myositis occurred during follow-up. At last follow-up, the elbow function was assessed by Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS), the results were excellent in 8 cases, good in 4 cases, fair in 1 case, and poor in 1 case (type C3 fracture), with the excellent and good rate of 85.7%. Conclusion: The unexposed ulnar nerve medial elbow incision can be used effectively to reduct the fracture, and it is not prone to ulnar nerve injury. Combined with the lateral approach to treat the distal humerus fracture, which has the advantages of short operation time, few trauma, little bleeding, and reliable effectiveness.

Effectiveness of total elbow arthroplasty with preservation of triceps brachii insertion approach / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) with preservation of triceps brachii insertion approach. Methods: Between January 2012 and September 2017, 17 patients with elbow disease were treated with TEA with preservation of triceps brachii insertion approach. There were 3 males and 14 females, with an average age of 65.2 years (range, 48-85 years). The injuries located on left elbow in 5 cases and on right elbow in 12 cases. There were 11 cases of distal humerus fracture (AO type C1 in 2 cases and type C3 in 9 cases); the interval between fracture and operation was 3-10 days (mean, 4.1 days). There were 3 cases of osteoarthritis and 3 cases of rheumatoid arthritis, with the disease duration of 2-26 years (mean, 8.7 years). The postoperative elbow function and pain was assessed by Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) score, respectively. The prosthesis position, heterotopic ossification, and periprosthetic fracture were observed by X-ray films. Results: All incisions healed by first intention. Sixteen patients were followed up 18-69 months (mean, 40.6 months). Intraoperative ulnar nerve injury occurred in 2 cases, and healed after symptomatic treatment. At last follow-up, the MEPS score was 55-100 (mean, 90.3). The results were excellent in 11 cases, good in 2 cases, fair in 2 cases, and poor in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 81.3%. The VAS score was 0-2 (mean, 0.4). X-ray reexamination showed that no polyethylene wear, prosthesis loosening and fracture, abnormal prosthesis position, periprosthetic fracture occurred during the follow-up period, and the prosthesis survival rate was 100%. Heterotopic ossification occurred in 2 and 3 months after operation in 2 cases, respectively. Conclusion: The triceps on approach for TEA are satisfactory for distal humerus fracture, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Strut Support with Tricortical Iliac Allografts in Unstable Proximal Humerus Fractures: Surgical Indication and New Definition of Poor Medial Column Support

BACKGROUND: The execution of fibular allograft augmentation in unstable proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) was technically demanding. In this study, the authors evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes after tricortical iliac allograft (TIA) augmentation in PHFs. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed 38 PHF patients treated with locking-plate fixation and TIA augmentation. Insertion of a TIA was indicated when an unstable PHF showed a large cavitary defect and poor medial column support after open reduction, regardless of the presence of medial cortical comminution in preoperative images. Radiographic imaging parameters (humeral head height, HHH; humeral neck-shaft angle, HNSA; head mediolateral offset, HMLO; and status of the union), Constant score, and range of motion were evaluated. Patients were grouped according to whether the medial column support after open reduction was poor or not (groups A and B, respectively); clinical outcomes were compared for all parameters. RESULTS: All fractures healed radiologically (average duration to complete union, 5.8 months). At final evaluation, the average Constant score was 73 points and the mean active forward flexion was 148°. Based on the Paavolainen assessment method, 33 patients had good results and 5 patients showed fair results. The mean loss of reduction was 1.32 mm in HHH and 5.02% in HMLO. None of the parameters evaluated showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups (poor and not poor medial column support). CONCLUSIONS: In unstable PHFs, TIA augmentation can provide good clinical and radiological results when there are poor medial column support and a large cavitary defect after open reduction.

Complex Proximal Humeral Fracture Fixation with PHILOS Plate using Minimal Invasive Percutaneous Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPPO) Technique: A Series of 30 Patients

@#plate osteosynthesis depends on the quality of the bone,design of the fixation devices and intra-operative soft tissuedissection. This study evaluates the functional outcome ofminimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis usinglocking compression plate in proximal humerus fracturetreatment. MaterialsandMethods:The study was conducted on 30patients with complex proximal humerus fractures treated byminimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis usinglocking compression plate (PHILOS). There were 21 malesand 9 females. The average age of our study group was 58.8years. All the patients were evaluated at six weeks, threemonths, four months, six months and 12 months followingsurgery. Results:All patients had fracture union at an average of 13.2weeks. The mean DASH score at the follow-up was 8.69 (2.5to 17.16), the average range of flexion was 143.83 degrees(100 to 170 degrees) and abduction was 121.49 degrees (90to 160 degrees). We had superficial infection in three patientswhich resolved with a short course of antibiotics. There wasexcellent outcome in 26 patients, good and fair in twopatients each. Conclusion:Proximal humerus fractures treated withminimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis usinglocking compression plate with minimal soft tissuedissection, provides good functional outcome and earlyreturn of shoulder function.

Effectiveness comparison between the paratricipital approach and the chevron olecranon V osteotomy approach in the treatment of type C3 distal humeral fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To compare the effectiveness between paratricipital approach and chevron olecranon V osteotomy approach for the treatment of type C3 (AO/OTA) distal humeral fractures and investigate the details of operation. Methods: Between April 2010 and September 2016, 36 type C3 (AO/OTA) distal humeral fractures were treated with open reduction and bicolumnar orthogonal locking plating fixation by paratricipital approach and chevron olecranon V osteotomy approach respectively. The patients were divided into 2 groups by approach, there were 17 cases in paratricipital group (group A) and the bicolumns and distal humeral joint surface were exposed by traction of triceps and olecranon, and the distal humeral joint surface of the 19 cases in chevron olecranon V osteotomy group (group B) were exposed by osteotomy of the olecranon and reversing of triceps. There was no significant difference in gender, age, dominant side, interval between injury and surgery, causes of injury between 2 groups ( P>0.05). Patients were followed up, the postoperative range of motion of elbow joint, strength, pain, and stability in 2 groups were documented and compared; the elbow joint function was evaluated according to Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). Results: The operation time of group A [(115.0±10.4) minutes] was less than that of group B [(121.0±12.3) minutes], but there was no significant difference ( t=–1.580, P=0.123). All patients in 2 groups got over 1 year follow-up and there was no significant difference of the follow-up time between 2 groups ( t=–0.843, P=0.405). There was 1 case of heterotopic ossification in each group; 1 case of incision infection in group A and 1 case of incision superficial infection in group B, and were cured after 2 weeks of intravenous antibiotics administration. There was no other operative complications in the 2 groups. At 3 months after operation, all the distal humerus healed. At last follow-up, the elbow flexion extension range of groups A and B were (102.0±12.6)° and (99.5±10.1)° respectively, showing no significant difference ( t=–0.681, P=0.501). The MEPS scores of groups A and B were 82.9±7.3 and 81.3±7.2 respectively, showing no significant difference ( t=0.670, P=0.507); and the evaluation grade also showed no significant difference between 2 groups ( Z=–0.442, P=0.659). Conclusion: By paratricipital approach and proper traction of the olecranon, the distal humeral articular surface can be exposed in the operation of type C3 distal humeral fractures, followed with same stable fixation after reduction, the effectiveness is equal to by chevron olecranon V osteotomy approach.