Fractures of lower end of the humerus. Clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures of the distal humerus have been shown to account for 2-6% of all fractures. These fractures occur in a bimodal age distribution, with fractures in younger patients occurring as a result of high energy mechanisms and fragility fractures occurring in the elderly as a result of low energy falls. All of these fractures represent a challenge to the surgeon due to the distal location and predilection towards articular involvement. Due to these issues multiple treatment strategies have emerged with the majority of current recommendations including open reduction and internal fixation (OR1F.) Purpose and objectives: The analysis of clinical material of the lower end of the humerus fractures and treatment tactics used in the , Department of Hand Pathology and Microsurgery during 2010-2013. Materials and methods: The study was realized in the Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department, of the Public Medical Institution The Hospital of Traumatology and Orthopaedics. Department of Hand Pathology and Microsurgery. The study had a retrospective character, based on the analysis of clinical observation records, laboratory data and surgical examination in a group of 38 patients with a diagnosis of humeral palette fracture, treated during 2010-2013 . Results: 1) Humeral palette lesions are more frequent at people of young age , working age (<60 years) - 25 persons (66%). The average age of the patients was 54.07±4,4 years. Female average age was 52.96±3,6 years (varying between 26 to 76 years), while men’s average age was 57.2±5,2 years (varying from 22 to 75 years). 2) In this study it was demonstrated that the lesion of the right member represent - 25 cases (66%), which is closely connected with work activitys of the patients. 3) In rural areas humeral palette fractures (79%) occurs more frequent than in urban areas (21%) because of the daily activities and work in agriculture. Conclusion: In the hospital are focused grave cases from all the country, that is why the largest share is formed of patients with humeral palette fracture type C- 30 cases (79%).