Fracturas de olécranon. Nueva alternativa terapéutica / Olecranon fractures. A new therapeutic alternative

Introducción: Las fracturas de olécranon desplazadas mayoritariamente requieren de fijación quirúrgica. Las técnicas más usadas son las clavijas con alambre en 8 y las placas anatómicas, pero están asociadas a altas tasas de insatisfacción por irritación de las partes blandas. Una nueva opción quirúrgica es la fijación con suturas de alta resistencia y tornillo canulado. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los rangos de movilidad, la consolidación ósea y las complicaciones utilizando esta técnica. Materiales y Métodos: Se presenta a 6 pacientes con fracturas tipo IIA y un promedio de edad de 43 años (rango 24-60) tratados con suturas de alta resistencia y tornillo canulado intramedular entre enero de 2020 y abril de 2021. Se evaluó el rango de movilidad posoperatorio, la consolidación ósea y las complicaciones. Todos fueron evaluados hasta el mes 6 posoperatorio. Resultados: A los 6 meses de la cirugía, el promedio de flexión fue de 143° (rango 90°-160°) y la extensión promedio, de 19° (0°-55°). Se logró la consolidación ósea en 5 pacientes y hubo un retraso de la consolidación con rigidez articular (complicación 16,6%). No hubo segundas intervenciones. Conclusión: La fijación con suturas de alta resistencia y tornillo canulado para las fracturas simples desplazadas de olécranon es una técnica simple, reproducible y económica, ya que no necesitaría de segundas intervenciones, como sí sucede con las fijaciones tradicionales. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Objective: Displaced olecranon fractures mostly require surgical fixation. The most commonly used techniques are tension band wiring and plate fixation, but they are associated with high rates of discomfort due to soft tissue irritation. An alternative surgical option is fixation with high-strength sutures with intramedullary screws. The aim of this study is to evaluate the range of motion, bone healing and complications using this technique. Materials and Methods: Six patients with type IIA fractures with an average age of 43 years (range 24-60 years) treated with high strength suture and intramedullary screw between January 2020 - April 2021 were included. Post-operative range of motion, bone healing and complications were evaluated. All were evaluated up to 6 months postoperatively. Results: At the 6th postoperative month, the average flexion was 143° (range 90°-160°), average extension 19° (0°-55°), there was bone healing in 5 patients, and 1 nonunion with joint stiffness (complication 16.6%). There were no second surgeries. Conclusion: Simple displaced olecranon fractures treated with high-strength suture with intramedullary screws is a simple, reproducible and economical technique since it does not require a second surgery, as is the case with traditional fixation methods for this pathology. Level of Evidence: IV

Prótesis total de codo en el contexto de una seudoartrosis de olécranon. Técnica quirúrgica y reporte de tres casos / Total elbow arthroplasty in the context of a nonunion of the olecranon. Surgical technique and report of 3 cases

La indemnidad del aparato extensor es fundamental para un correcto funcionamiento de una prótesis de codo. Se ha considerado que la deficiencia del tríceps es una contraindicación relativa para la artroplastia, porque produce una contractura en flexión y un déficit de extensión activa. Estas limitaciones pueden afectar significativamente la mejora funcional que la artroplastia total de codo produce. Ante una seudoartrosis de olécranon, la colocación de una prótesis total de codo se presenta como un problema complejo que resolver. El objetivo de este artículo es describir la técnica quirúrgica para la colocación de una prótesis total de codo en el contexto de una seudoartrosis de olécranon, y comunicar tres casos. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

The integrity of the extensor apparatus is essential for the correct functioning of an elbow prosthesis. Triceps deficiency has been considered a relative contraindication for arthroplasty, because it produces a flexion contracture and an active extension deficit. These limitations can significantly affect the functional improvement that total elbow arthroplasty produces. Faced with an olec-ranon nonunion, the placement of a total elbow prosthesis is presented as a complex problem to be solved. The objective of this article is to describe the surgical technique for the placement of a total elbow prosthesis in the context of an olecranon nonunion, and to report three cases. Level of Evidence: IV

Osteosíntesis de olécranon: Sistema absorbe-tracción utilizando suturas de alta resistencia / Internal fixation of olecranon fractures using tension band wiring and high resistance suture materials

Introducción: La reducción abierta y fijación interna mediante el sistema absorbe-tracción es un método que ha demostrado su eficacia y logra resultados predecibles en el tratamiento de las fracturas de olécranon tipos IIA y IIIA de la Clasificación de la Clínica Mayo. Considerada por muchos cirujanos como una técnica sencilla y reproducible a la hora de restaurar la anatomía y la continuidad del aparato extensor del codo, su empleo puede asociarse con una tasa de complicaciones relativamente alta, y no es infrecuente la necesidad de retirar el cerclaje de alambre previamente colocado. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar si reemplazar el clásico alambre de 1,6 mm por suturas de alta resistencia aporta la estabilidad suficiente para el tratamiento de las fracturas de olécranon tipos IIA y IIIA, y analizar los resultados obtenidos en una serie de casos. Materiales y Métodos: Se estudió, en forma retrospectiva, a 25 pacientes consecutivos con fracturas de olécranon tipos IIA y IIIA, tratados mediante reducción abierta y fijación interna con sistema absorbe-tracción compuesto por alambres de Kirschner de 1,6 mm y suturas de alta resistencia (polietileno trenzado de alto peso molecular), con un seguimiento mínimo de 12 meses. Se evaluaron el tiempo de consolidación radiográfica, el rango de movilidad, el puntaje MEPS, y se registraron las complicaciones. Resultados: Todas las fracturas consolidaron, en un promedio de 6.83 semanas (rango 6-10). El puntaje MEPS promedio fue de 96,6 (rango 85-100). El arco total de movilidad promedio para la flexo-extensión activa del codo fue de 139° (rango 110-150°). La extensión promedio fue de -4,8° (rango 0-20°) y la flexión, de 143,8° (rango 130-150°). Se registraron cuatro casos de migración proximal de los alambres de Kirschner y un caso de pérdida de reducción de 3 mm en la tercera semana del posoperatorio. Dos pacientes requirieron una segunda intervención para retirar los alambres de Kirschner. Ninguno refirió dolor o molestias inherentes al uso de la sutura. Conclusiones: El sistema absorbe-tracción utilizando suturas de alta resistencia es una opción a la hora de realizar la osteosíntesis de una fractura de olécranon tipos IIA y IIIA. Los resultados clínicos y radiográficos han sido satisfactorios, con una baja tasa de complicaciones. El uso de suturas ultrarresistentes simplifica el procedimiento y disminuye la necesidad de una segunda intervención para retirar el alambre. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Objectives: Open reduction and internal fixation using tension band wiring is an efficient approach that offers predictable results in patients with olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification). Many surgeons consider it a simple and reproducible technique for restoring the anatomy responsible for elbow extension, as well as its functional continuity. This technique may be associated with a relatively high percentage of complications, as well as the need to remove the previous cerclage wire, if present. The purpose of our study was to determine if replacing the traditional 1.6 mm Kirschner wires with high resistance suture materials could reliably maintain reduction in patients with olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification), and to analyze the results. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five consecutive patients were studied retrospectively. All of them presented olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification), and were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using tension band wiring built with two 1.6 mm Kirschner wires and two high resistance sutures (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene). A minimum 12-month follow up was performed in all patients. Time to bone healing, range of motion and functional scores were evaluated and complications recorded. Results: All fractures healed in an average time of 6.83 weeks (range 6-10). The average Mayo score was 96.6 (range 85-100). The average range of motion for active elbow flexion-extension was 139 degrees (range 130-150). The average extension and flexion was -4.8 degrees (range 0 to -20) and 143.8 (range 130-150). Four cases of proximal migration of the Kirschner wires and one case of a 3 mm loss of reduction in the third postoperative week were reported. Two patients required a second intervention for removal of the Kirschner wires. None of the patients reported pain or discomfort as a a result of the sutures. Conclusions: Tension band wiring using high resistance suture materials is an adequate alternative for the surgical management of olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification). Clinical and radiological outcomes in this series were satisfactory, and the complication rate was low. The use of high resistance suture materials may simplify the procedure and reduce the need of a second intervention to remove the hardware. Level of Evidence: IV

Trans-olecranon fossa four-cortex purchase lateral pinning in displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus - a prospective analysis in 48 children / Fixação lateral em quatro corticais através da fossa olecraniana em fraturas supracondilianas deslocadas do úmero - Uma análise prospectiva em 48 crianças

ABSTRACT Objective The current study aims at a functional analysis of trans-olecranon lateral pinning for displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus (SCFH) in children. Methods A prospective study of 48 children (30 males, 18 females; mean age: 7.4 years) with displaced SCFH was treated at this institution with modified technique from March 2011 to September 2014. Cases were selected on the basis of inclusion criteria. The functional outcome was assessed clinically by modified Flynn's criteria along with achievement of full range of motion. Results All 48 children with a mean follow up of 20 months (range: 6-26 months) were assessed. All fractures united well. With modified Flynn's criteria, results were excellent in 40 children (83.3%), good in six children (12.5%), and fair in two children (4.2%). There were no poor results. Preoperative nerve palsies seen in four children recovered at ten weeks. Full range of motion was achieved on an average of 20 days after K-wire removal and no new post-operative nerve palsies were noted. Conclusion The modified trans-olecranon fossa four-cortex purchase (TOF-FCP) technique was promising in all cases of unstable SCFH without the complications of loss of reduction or iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury. This technique is simple, safe, and reproducible, with good clinical results in this type of fracture.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar funcionalmente a fixação lateral através da fossa olecraniana em fraturas supracondilianas deslocadas do úmero (FSDU) em crianças. Métodos Estudo prospectivo de 48 crianças (30 do sexo masculino, 18 do feminino, idade média: 7,4 anos) com FSDU, tratados nesta instituição entre março de 2011 e setembro de 2014 com uma técnica modificada. Os casos foram selecionados com base em critérios de inclusão. O resultado funcional foi avaliado clinicamente pelos critérios de Flynn modificados, juntamente com a feitura da amplitude de movimento completa. Resultados Todas as 48 crianças foram avaliadas, com seguimento médio de 20 meses (intervalo: seis a 26). Todas as fraturas apresentaram boa união. De acordo com os critérios de Flynn modificados, os resultados foram excelentes em 40 crianças (83,3%), bons em seis (12,5%) e razoáveis em duas (4,2%). Não foram observados resultados ruins. As paralisias nervosas pré-operatórias observadas em quatro crianças se resolveram após dez semanas. Os pacientes alcançaram amplitude completa de movimento em uma média de 20 dias após a remoção dos fios de Kirschner e não foram observadas novas paralisias nervosas pós-operatórias. Conclusão A técnica modificada de fixação em quatro corticais através da fossa transoleocraniana (FQC-FTO) foi promissora em todos os casos de FSDU instável, não apresentou complicações de perda de redução ou lesão do nervo ulnar iatrogênico. A técnica é simples, segura e reprodutível, com bons resultados clínicos nesse tipo de fratura.

Tratamiento funcional de fracturas desplazadas de olécranon en pacientes mayores de 70 años / Functional treatment of displaced olecranon fractures in patients older than 70 years

Objetivo: Reportar los resultados clínicos y radiológicos del tratamiento funcional de fracturas desplazadas de olécranon en pacientes >70 años. Materiales y Métodos: Se evaluaron 28 pacientes >70 años con fracturas desplazadas de olécranon. El tratamiento consistió en la inmovilización inicial con una valva de yeso (promedio 5 días) y, luego, movilización activa según tolerancia. No se indicó rehabilitación kinesiológica. Ningún paciente fue perdido en el seguimiento. El grupo estaba formado por 27 mujeres y un hombre. La edad promedio era de 82 años. Según la clasificación de la Clínica Mayo, 18 fracturas eran de tipo IIA y 10, de tipo IIB. El seguimiento promedio fue de 14 meses. Resultados: La flexo-extensión fue de 142°-15°. La fuerza muscular fue de M5 en 17 pacientes y de M4 en 9. La fuerza de puño fue un 93% del lado contralateral. El dolor según la escala visual analógica fue de 1. La satisfacción con el tratamiento según esta escala fue de 9. Según el puntaje de la Clínica Mayo, 22 pacientes tuvieron resultados excelentes y 6, buenos. El puntaje DASH promedio fue de 15. Veinticuatro pacientes evolucionaron hacia la seudoartrosis. El gap articular final fue, en promedio, de 16 mm. El gap a nivel de la cortical posterior final fue, en promedio de 22 mm. Conclusión: El tratamiento no quirúrgico de las fracturas desplazadas de olécranon en pacientes mayores ofrece un número elevado de buenos resultados funcionales con alto grado de satisfacción. Nivel de evidencia: IV.

Objective: To report the clinical and radiological outcomes of the functional treatment for displaced olecranon fractures in patients >70 years old. Methods: Twenty-eight patients >70 years old with displaced olecranon fractures were evaluated. The treatment included initial immobilization with a cast (average time 5 days) and then active movement as tolerated. Physiotherapy was not indicated. No patients were lost in the follow-up. The study group included 27 women and a man. Average age was 82 years old. According to the Mayo Clinic Classification, 18 fractures were type IIA and 10 were type IIB. Average followup was 14 months. Results: Flexion-extension was of 142°-15°. Muscular strength of the triceps was M5 in 17 patients and M4 in 9. Grip strength was 93% of the contralateral side. The score in the visual analogue scale for pain was 1. Satisfaction with the treatment according to this scale was 9. According to the Mayo Clinic classification, 22 patients presented excellent results, and 6 good results. Average DASH score was 15. Twenty-four patients evolved to a nonunion. Mean final joint gap was 16 mm. Mean final gap at the posterior cortical level of the olecranon was 22 mm. Conclusion: Functional treatment of displaced olecranon fractures in patients >70 years old is associated with a high degree of goods results and patient satisfaction. Level of evidence. IV.

Intra-medullary screw fixation for olecranon fracture

Olecranon fractures are common injuries of the proximal ulna which constitute about 10% of all upper extremity lesions. The fractures are usually isolated and due to its intra-articular extension of fractures, anatomic reduction and early mobilization should be achieved in any case. Use of a single large-diameter cancellous screw for repair of olecranon fractures has been advocated for a long time. Was to determine and compare the clinical and radiological outcome after tension band wiring and intra-medullary screw [IMS] fixation of olecranon fractures and to compare the incidence of hardware removal and residual pain or disability. 35 patients presented with an isolated transverse olecranon fracture, 15 patients from them, treated by Tension band wiring [TBW] fixation methods, while 20 patients treated by intra-medullary screw, The fracture pattern was assessed using the Mayo classification. The tension band technique for olecranon fractures yields good clinical outcomes; but may associated with significant complications, While we found that [IMS] fixation is much easier Jess operating time, less tissue destruction with more or less fewer complication such as post operative pain, wound infection, soft tissue irritation and the implant removal is much faster and easier. It is concluded that using intra-medullary screw fixation in the clinical situation might provide better results with fewer complications than the currently recommended tension band technique?

Trans-scaphoid and trans-capitate perilunate fracture-dislocation of the wrist with concomitant ipsilateral fractures: a case report

All perilunate fracture-dislocations combine bone avulsions, ligament disruption and fractures in different forms. The most frequent pattern is the dorsal transscaphoid perilunate fracture-dislocation. The reported risk of missed initial diagnosis in perilunate dislocations is as high as 20%. Concerning pathomechanics of the perilunate fracture-dislocation, it should be noted that most dorsal injuries usually result from a fall on the outstretched hand or motor vehicle accidents although other mechanisms are also mentioned. We describe here a case of dorsal trans-scaphoid trans-capitate perilunate fracture-dislocation together with posterior olecranon fracture-dislocation of the left upper extremity. To the best of the authors' knowledge, such a case with this concomitant elbow fracture-dislocation has not been previously reported in the literature