Case Series: Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Comminuted, Distal Humerus Fractures

Abstract

Introduction: Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is an established treatment for late-stage arthritis of the elbow. In comminuted distal humerus fractures, there is a role in performing total elbow arthroplasty to aid in the restoration of function and range of motion. This is a case series describing TEA in 3 non-rheumatoid patients who sustained comminuted distal humerus fractures. Methods: Three elderly non-rheumatoid patients who sustained comminuted distal humerus fractures underwent total elbow arthroplasty using Zimmer® Coonrad/morrey prosthesis. Demographic data was retrospectively collected and outcomes were measured using the mayo elbow performance scores. Results: Post-operatively, the patients demonstrated improvement in mayo elbow performance scores and were able to return to functional activities in their daily lives. Conclusion: TEA is a viable option for non-rheumatoid elderly patients who sustain comminuted distal humerus fractures due to a low energy fall, with satisfactory outcome measures.