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Pin and plate fixation in complex distal humerus fractures: surgical technique and results

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Abstract

Purpose

Complex distal humerus fractures are difficult to fix by conventional methods, especially in comminuted low distal humerus fractures. We propose a technique using small diameter K-wires and a plate on the humeral shaft.

Methods

Between May 2007 and March 2009, 19 patients with poor bone quality showing comminuted or low distal humerus fractures involving the articular surface were referred to our institution and were primarily treated by this technique that we called “pin and plate fixation”. We have reviewed all the cases treated by this method.

Results

The average age was 46 years. All of the patients were followed up for a mean of 12 months and had a good range of motion (the average total arc of flexion-extension was 99°); the average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 18 points. The Mayo Elbow Performance Index was measured and the mean score was 88 in our patients.

Conclusions

In this study, a technique has been evaluated for the treatment of complex distal humerus fractures. We recommend this technique in comminuted, osteoporotic or low distal humerus fractures in which other fixation methods seem difficult or even impossible.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

    Reza Shariar Kamrani, Saeed Reza Mehrpour, Mohamad Reza Aghamirsalim, Reza Sorbi & Ramin Zargar Bashi

  2. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Ufuk University, Ankara, Turkey

    Alper Kaya

Authors
  1. Reza Shariar Kamrani
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  2. Saeed Reza Mehrpour
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  3. Mohamad Reza Aghamirsalim
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  4. Reza Sorbi
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  5. Ramin Zargar Bashi
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  6. Alper Kaya
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Saeed Reza Mehrpour.

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Kamrani, R.S., Mehrpour, S.R., Aghamirsalim, M.R. et al. Pin and plate fixation in complex distal humerus fractures: surgical technique and results. International Orthopaedics (SICOT) 36, 839–844 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-011-1343-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-011-1343-2

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