[Evaluation of total elbow arthroplasty in treatment of distal humeral fracture in the elderly].

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of total elbow arthroplasty in treatment of distal humeral fracture in the elderly.

Methods: A total of 24 elderly patients who were diagnosed of distal humeral fracture and received Coorad-Morry prosthesis arthroplasty were retrospectively selected and analyzed from Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from 2003 to 2009. X ray examination of elbow joint and clinical evaluation were conducted in the follow-up; Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was used in the last follow-up to evaluate patients' elbow function.

Results: A total of 20 patients with intact follow-up information were included in the final analysis, with mean follow-up length 92 months (65 - 136), mean VAS score 0.8 (0 - 2), extension degree of elbow 25 (0 - 60)degrees, flexion degree 112 (80 - 135)degrees; Mean MEPS was 88.5, with 7 excellent, 8 good, and 1 fair. Two patients had severe heterotopic ossification, 3 patients had ulnar neuropathy, 2 of which were temporary. One patient had superficial infection, and 1 had aseptic loosening in the humeral part, but did not receive revision surgery.

Conclusion: Total elbow arthroplasty can successfully treat distal humeral fracture in the elderly and achieve satisfactory result which can last for a long time.