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Nondisplaced fractures of the greater tuberosity of the humerus: sonographic detection.

In this retrospective study, the sonographic appearance of fracture of the greater tuberosity of the humerus was evaluated in 17 men and 14 women aged 20-69 years with acute, semiacute, or remote shoulder trauma in whom results of rotator cuff sonography had suggested the diagnosis of such a fracture. Clinical data, radiologic reports, sonograms, and initial plain radiographs of the shoulder were analyzed; clinical follow-up information was assessed in 22 patients. Sonography showed discontinuity and irregularity of the humeral cortex in all patients. In 25 patients (81%), displaced fracture fragments could be seen. Sonographic findings were suggestive of, but not specific for, fracture. Cortical abnormalities of the humerus were identified without modification of standard scanning protocols. A humeral fracture was confirmed with radiography in 24 patients; in 10 of them, the fracture had been missed initially on plain radiographs. It is concluded that, in evaluation of soft tissues in shoulder trauma, sonography may define rotator cuff abnormalities and occasionally help in detection of occult humeral fractures.

Adult↗

The role of glenohumeral capsular ligaments in internal and external rotation of the humerus.

The purpose of this study was to define the relationship between internal and external rotation of the humerus and the lengths of the anterior and posterior components of the glenohumeral capsuloligamentous complex. Six cadaveric shoulders (with intact ligaments and humeri) were stripped of all muscles. Each shoulder was mounted in its correct anatomic position. The extent of internal and external rotation of the humerus was then measured 36 times (at 10 degrees intervals in a 360 degrees humeral cone of motion). One component of the glenohumeral capsuloligamentous complex was lengthened, and the humeral rotation was again measured 36 times. The process of lengthening was done by cutting the ligament and replacing it with a beaded chain and catches sutured across the joint. The process of lengthening each component was repeated in 12 combinations, each with a different anterior and posterior component length. Humeral rotation was measured 36 times using a specially designed goniometer. The length of the anterior component of the glenohumeral capsuloligamentous complex most affected external humeral rotation, and the length of the posterior component most affected internal humeral rotation. However, the lengths of both the anterior and posterior components shared in limiting rotation at a number of positions.

Aged↗

Medial approach for operative treatment of the widely displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in childre.

Twenty-seven widely displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children were treated by open reduction and cross K-wire fixation by the medial approach over a 30-month period. The mean follow-up was 14 months, average age 8 years and the mean delay in presentation 49 hours. Medial approach provided an excellent view of the medial bone pathology via an internervous plane and enabled an anatomical reduction in all cases. Cross K-wire fixation obviated the need to immobilize the elbow at 90 degrees or more flexion. No postoperative neurovascular complication was noted. Most patients regained full range of motion within 6 weeks of pin removal and no change in the carrying angle was noted. Delayed presentation, repeated manipulations and massage were responsible for loss of motion. Superficial pin tract infection was noted in 5 patients and resolved with dressings and antibiotics. No deep infection occurred. Medial approach for open reduction and internal fixation of the widely-displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus is safe and straightforward, ensuring anatomical reduction and excellent function.

Journal Article↗

Primary hemangiosarcoma of the humerus in a Maltese dog.

A 14-year-old intact male Maltese dog was presented with a history of pain and swelling of the left upper forelimb and lameness for 3 weeks. Hematological and radiographical examinations showed regenerative anemia and osteolysis of the humerus. Fine needle aspiration biopsy detected epithelioid- and fibroblast-like anaplastic cells with blood components. A hemorrhagic and osteolytic malignant tumor was suspected, and the affected forelimb was amputated. Histopathologically, the dog was diagnosed with primary hemangiosarcoma of the humerus. Thereafter, metastatic lesions appeared in the skin, and the dog was euthanized 1 month after the operation.

Animals↗

Four-part fractures of the neck of the humerus.

Four-part fractures of the upper end of the humerus are uncommon injuries and there is still dispute about the best form of management. A retrospective study of 32 patients with these injuries has shown that non-operative management is frequently followed by persistent pain, stiffness and dysfunction of the shoulder. A prospective study of 49 patients with this injury presenting at the Bristol Royal Infirmary has shown that reconstruction of the upper end of the humerus with insertion of a Neer prosthesis will usually restore comfort and function. Whichever regimen is employed, disability is prolonged and dedicated physiotherapy is essential in their management.

Adult↗

Fixation of fractures of the shaft of the humerus by dynamic compression plate or intramedullary nail. A prospective, randomised trial.

We randomised prospectively 44 patients with fractures of the shaft of the humerus to open reduction and internal fixation by either an intramedullary nail (IMN) or a dynamic compression plate (DCP). Patients were followed up for a minimum of six months. There were no significant differences in the function of the shoulder and elbow, as determined by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons' score, the visual analogue pain score, range of movement, or the time taken to return to normal activity. There was a single case of shoulder impingement in the DCP group and six in the IMN group. Of these six, five occurred after antegrade insertion of an IMN. In the DCP group three patients developed complications, compared with 13 in the IMN group. We had to perform secondary surgery on seven patients in the IMN group, but on only one in the DCP group (p = 0.016). Our findings suggest that open reduction and internal fixation with a DCP remains the best treatment for unstable fractures of the shaft of the humerus. Fixation by IMN may be indicated for specific situations, but is technically more demanding and has a higher rate of complications.

Adult↗

Interobserver and intraobserver variation in classification systems for fractures of the distal humerus.

We assessed the inter- and intraobserver variation in classification systems for fractures of the distal humerus. Three orthopaedic trauma consultants, three trauma registrars and three consultant musculoskeletal radiologists independently classified 33 sets of radiographs of such fractures on two occasions, each using three separate systems. For interobserver variation, the Riseborough and Radin system produced 'moderate' agreement (kappa = 0.513), but half of the fractures were not classifiable by this system. For the complete AO system, agreement was 'fair' (kappa = 0.343), but if only AO type and group or AO type alone was used, agreement improved to 'moderate' and 'substantial', respectively (kappa = 0.52 and 0.66). Agreement for the system of Jupiter and Mehne was 'fair' (kappa = 0.295). Similar levels of intraobserver variation were found. Systems of classification are useful in decision-making and evaluation of outcome only if there is agreement and consistency among observers. Our study casts doubt on these aspects of the systems currently available for fractures of the distal humerus.

Classification↗

Supracondylar extension fracture of the humerus in children. Manipulative reduction, immobilisation and fixation using a U-shaped plaster slab with the elbow in full extension.

We present a method of manipulative reduction, immobilisation and fixation using a U-shaped plaster with the elbow in extension for extension-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. When the elbow is in full extension, both the extensor and the flexor muscles are neutralised during manipulative reduction and the carrying angle can be easily assessed thus preventing cubitus varus, the most common complication. In order to evaluate the efficiency of this method, we compared the clinical results of the new method with those of conventional treatment. In a group of 95 children who sustained an extension-type supracondylar fracture of the humerus, 49 were treated by the new method and 46 by the conventional method, reduction and immobilisation in a plaster slab with the elbow in flexion. Reduction and immobilisation were easily achieved and reliably maintained by one manipulation for all the children treated by the new method. In 12 children treated by the conventional method, the initial reduction failed and in seven secondary displacement of the distal fragment occurred during the period of immobilisation in plaster. All required a second or third manipulation. Of the 46 children, 28 (60.9%) had developed cubitus varus at a mean follow-up of 4.6 years when treated by the conventional method. None of the children treated by the new method developed cubitus varus. The mean score, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) elbow scoring system, was 91 points using the new method and 78 with the conventional method. The results were statistically significant with regard to the incidence of cubitus varus and the elbow score (p < 0.01) suggesting that the new method is reliable and gives a satisfactory outcome.

Adolescent↗

Complex fractures of the distal humerus in the elderly. The role of total elbow replacement as primary treatment.

Between 1995 and 2000, 19 consecutive patients with fractures of the distal humerus were treated by primary total elbow replacement using the Coonrad-Morrey prosthesis. No patient had inflammatory or degenerative arthritis of the elbow. The mean age at the time of injury was 73 years (61 to 95). According to the AO classification, 11 patients had suffered a C3 injury, two a B3 and two an A3. One fracture was unclassified. Two patients died from unrelated causes and one was unable to be assessed because of concurrent illness. The mean time to follow-up was three years (1 to 5.5). At follow-up 11 patients (68%) reported no pain, four (25%) had mild pain with activity and one had mild pain at rest. The mean flexion arc was 24 degrees to 125 degrees. The mean supination was 90 degrees (70 to 100) and pronation 70 degrees (50 to 110). No elbow was unstable. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 23 (0.92 to 63.3) and the mean Mayo elbow performance score was 93 (80 to 100). Of the 16 patients, 15 were satisfied with the outcome. Radiological evaluation revealed only one patient with a radiolucent line at the cement-bone interface. It was between 1 and 2 mm in length, was present on the initial postoperative radiograph and was non-progressive at the time of follow-up. Primary total elbow arthroplasty is an acceptable option for the management of comminuted fractures of the distal humerus in elderly patients when the configuration of the fracture and the quality of the bone make reconstruction difficult.

Aged↗

Rehabilitation after two-part fractures of the neck of the humerus.

We undertook a prospective, controlled trial which compared two rehabilitation programmes for 86 patients who sustained two-part fractures of the proximal humerus. Patients were randomised either to receive immediate physiotherapy within one week (group A) or delayed physiotherapy after three weeks of immobilisation in a collar and cuff sling (group B). At 16 weeks after the fracture, patients in group A had less pain (p < 0.01) and had greater shoulder function (p < 0.001) than those in group B. At 52 weeks, the differences between the groups had reduced. Although group A still had greater shoulder function and less pain, there was no statistical difference when compared with group B. By analysis of the area under the curve, an overall measure up to the 52-week period, group A experienced less pain as measured by the SF36 general health questionnaire and had improved shoulder function. Our results show that patients with two-part fractures of the proximal humerus who begin immediate physiotherapy, experience less pain. The gains in shoulder function persist at 52 weeks which suggests that patients do not benefit from immobilisation before beginning physiotherapy.

Adult↗

Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of supracondylar fracture of the humerus and ipsilateral fracture of the forearm in children.

We treated 22 children with a supracondylar fracture of the humerus and an ipsilateral fracture of the forearm by closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. There were four Gartland type-II and 18 Gartland type-III supracondylar fractures of the humerus. There were fractures of both bones of the forearm in 16 and of the radius in six. Both the supracondylar and the distal forearm fractures were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. The mean follow-up time was 38.6 months. At the latest follow-up there were 21 excellent or good results and one fair result. There were no cases of delayed union, nonunion or malunion. Five nerve injuries were diagnosed on admission and all recovered spontaneously within eight weeks. No patient developed a compartment syndrome.

Bone Wires↗

Internal fixation of complex fractures of the proximal humerus.

We treated 34 consecutive articular fractures of the proximal humerus in 33 patients with good bone quality by open reduction and internal fixation. Anatomical or nearly anatomical reduction was achieved in 30, at a mean follow-up of 63 months (25 to 131), complete or partial avascular necrosis had occurred in 12 cases (35%). Two patients subsequently underwent arthroplasty and six further patients required additional surgery. The 32 patients who did not require arthroplasty obtained a mean Constant score of 78 points or 89% of an age- and gender-matched normal score (66 points or 76% in the presence and 83 points or 96% in the absence of avascular necrosis (p < 0.0005)); 22 were painfree, and seven had mild pain and three moderate pain. The mean active anterior elevation was 156 degrees. Internal fixation of complex fractures of the proximal humerus restored good shoulder function if avascular necrosis did not develop.

Adult↗

Early versus delayed treatment of extension type-3 supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.

We examined differences in the rate of open reduction, operating time, length of hospital stay and outcome between two groups of children with displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus who underwent surgery either within 12 hours of the injury or later. There were 77 children with type-3 supracondylar fractures. Of these, in 43 the fracture was reduced and pinned within 12 hours and in 34 more than 12 hours after injury. Both groups were similar in regard to gender, age and length of follow-up. Bivariate and logistical regression analysis showed no statistical difference between the groups. The number of peri-operative complications was low and did not affect the outcome regardless of the timing of treatment. Our study confirmed that the treatment of uncomplicated displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus can be early or delayed. In these circumstances operations at night can be avoided.

Child↗

Delay increases the need for open reduction of type-III supracondylar fractures of the humerus.

Recent reports have suggested that a delay in the management of type-III supracondylar fractures of the humerus does not affect the outcome. In this retrospective study we examined whether the timing of surgery affected peri-operative complications, or the need for open reduction. There were 171 children with a closed type-III supracondylar fracture of the humerus and no vascular compromise in our study. They were divided into two groups: those treated less than eight hours from presentation to the Accident and Emergency Department (126 children), and those treated more than eight hours from presentation (45 children). There were no differences in the rate of complications between the groups, but children waiting more than eight hours for reduction were more likely to undergo an open reduction (33.3% vs 11.2%, p < 0.05) and there was a weak correlation (p = 0.062) between delay in surgery and length of operating time. Consequently, we would still recommend treating these injuries at the earliest opportunity.

Adolescent↗

[Are angle-fixed implants with elastic properties advantageous for the internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures?].

There is a recent interest for the use of angle-fixed plates in the management of proximal humerus fractures. Rigid implants might be associated with an increased risk of cutting-out. In order to analyse the potential beneficial effects of the implant elasticity on fracture fixation, the biomechanical properties of a rigid and an elastic angle-fixed plating system were assessed in an experimental study. An unstable fracture of the surgical neck was created in 8 pairs of human humeri. Specimens were subjected to axial loading and torque. Stiffness, subsidence and load to failure were assessed. The implant with elastic properties was characterized by a lower torsional stiffness and a higher subsidence during axial loading and torque. This implant failed at lower loads than the rigid implant did. Elastic implant properties of angle-fixed plates have shown not to be advantageous for the management of fractures of the proximal humerus.

Bone Plates↗

Interlocking intramedullary nailing of pathological fractures of the shaft of the humerus.

We performed a retrospective study of thirteen patients who had had sixteen pathological fractures of the shaft of the humerus secondary to metastatic disease. All but one fracture was stabilized with interlocking intramedullary nailing with use of a closed technique. The mean operative time for the sixteen procedures was ninety-two minutes (range, fifty to 180 minutes), the mean blood loss was 116 milliliters (range, fifty to 200 milliliters), and the mean duration of hospitalization was five days (range, two to ten days). Fourteen extremities had a return to nearly normal function within three weeks after nailing. Relief of pain was rated as good or excellent in all but one patient. Eleven patients (fourteen humeri) received radiation therapy at a mean of seven days (range, three to fourteen days) after the operation. Nine patients died at a mean of four months (range, one to twelve months) postoperatively; the remaining four patients were still alive at a mean of ten months (range, nine to fifteen months). There were no problems related to the wound, deep infections, nerve palsies, or failures of the implant. The fracture was united in all seven of the eleven extremities in patients who survived for at least three months and had radiographs available. Interlocking intramedullary nailing of the humerus for pathological fractures provides immediate stability and can be accomplished with a closed technique, brief operative time, and minimum morbidity, with a resultant early return of function to the extremity.

Adult↗

Articular fractures of the distal part of the humerus.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this retrospective study was to identify the patterns of distal humeral articular fractures and to analyze the results of open reduction and internal fixation of these injuries. METHODS: The cases of twenty-one patients with an articular fracture of the distal part of the humerus were reviewed at an average of forty months after the injury. Five components of the injury were identified: (1) the capitellum and the lateral aspect of the trochlea, (2) the lateral epicondyle, (3) the posterior aspect of the lateral column, (4) the posterior aspect of the trochlea, and (5) the medial epicondyle. All fractures were reduced and were stabilized with implants buried beneath the articular surface. RESULTS: All fractures healed, and no patient had residual ulnohumeral instability or weakness. Ten patients required a second operation: six, for release of an elbow contracture; two, for treatment of ulnar neuropathy; one, for removal of hardware causing symptoms; and one, because of early loss of fixation. The average arc of ulnohumeral motion was 96 degrees (range, 55 degrees to 140 degrees ). The results according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Index were excellent in four patients, good in twelve, and fair in five. CONCLUSIONS: Apparent fractures of the capitellum are often more complex fractures of the articular surface of the distal part of the humerus. Treatment of these injuries with operative reduction and fixation with buried implants can result in satisfactory restoration of elbow function.

Adult↗