ObjectiveTo explore the biomechanical stability of the medial column reconstructed with the exo-cortical placement of humeral calcar screw by three-dimensional finite element analysis. MethodsA 70-year-old female volunteer was selected for CT scan of the proximal humerus, and a wedge osteotomy was performed 5 mm medially inferior to the humeral head to form a three-dimensional finite element model of a 5 mm defect in the medial cortex. Then, the proximal humeral locking plate (PHILOS) was placed. According to distribution of 2 calcar screws, the study were divided into 3 groups: group A, in which 2 calcar screws were inserted into the lower quadrant of the humeral head in the normal direction for supporting the humeral head; group B, in which 1 calcar screw was inserted outside the cortex below the humeral head, and the other was inserted into the humeral head in the normal direction; group C, in which 2 calcar screws were inserted outside the cortex below the humeral head. The models were loaded with axial, shear, and rotational loadings, and the biomechanical stability of the 3 groups was compared by evaluating the peak von mises stress (PVMS) of the proximal humerus and the internal fixator, proximal humeral displacement, neck-shaft angle changes, and the rotational stability of the proximal humerus. Seven cases of proximal humeral fractures with comminuted medial cortex were retrospectively analyzed between January 2017 and December 2020. Locking proximal humeral plate surgery was performed, and one (5 cases) or two (2 cases) calcar screws were inserted into the inferior cortex of the humeral head during the operation, and the effectiveness was observed. Results Under axial and shear force, the PVMS of the proximal humerus in group B and group C was greater than that in group A, the PVMS of the internal fixator in group B and group C was less than that in group A, while the PVMS of the proximal humerus and internal fixator between group B and group C were similar. The displacement of the proximal humerus and the neck-shaft angle change among the 3 groups were similar under axial and shear force, respectively. Under the rotational torque, compared with group A, the rotation angle of humerus in group B and group C increased slightly, and the rotation stability decreased slightly. All the 7 patients were followed up 6-12 months. All the fractures healed, and the healing time was 8-14 weeks, with an average of 10.9 weeks; the neck-shaft angle changes (the difference between the last follow-up and the immediate postoperative neck-shaft angle) was (1.30±0.42)°, and the Constant score of shoulder joint function was 87.4±4.2; there was no complication such as humeral head varus collapse and screw penetrating the articular surface. ConclusionFor proximal humeral fractures with comminuted medial cortex, exo-cortical placement of 1 or 2 humeral calcar screw of the locking plate outside the inferior cortex of the humeral head can also effectively reconstruct medial column stability, providing an alternative approach for clinical practice.
Objective To analyze the effectiveness of tuberosity suture combined with autogenous bone grafting in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for elderly patients with proximal humerus fracture. Methods A clinical data of 28 patients with fresh proximal humerus fractures, who met the selection criteria and admitted between June 2014 and April 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. There were 7 males and 21 females. Age ranged from 65 to 81 years, with an average of 73.8 years. The causes of injury were 21 cases of fall, 6 cases of traffic accident, and 1 case of falling from height. The time from injury to operation ranged from 5 to 20 days with an average of 9.2 days. There were 8 cases of Neer three-part fracture and 20 cases of four-part fracture. The reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was performed, and the greater and lesser tuberosities were sutered and reconstructed with autogenous bone grafting. After operation, the Constant score, American Society for Shoulder Surgery (ASES) score, and visual analogue scale (VAS) score were used to evaluate shoulder function and pain; and the active range of motion of the shoulder joint was recorded, including flexion, external rotation, and internal rotation. X-ray films were taken to observe the position of prosthesis. According to the evaluation criteria proposed by Boileau, the healing of greater tuberosity was evaluated, and the effectiveness was compared between the patients with healed and non-healed (displacement and absorption) greater tuberosity. ResultsAll incisions healed by first intention after operation. All patients were followed up 24-106 months, with an average of 60.9 months. At last follow-up, the VAS score of shoulder joint ranged from 0 to 6 (mean, 1.1). The Constant score ranged from 45 to 100 (mean, 80.1). The ASES score ranged from 57 to 100 (mean, 84.7). The active range of motions of shoulder joint were 60°-160° (mean, 118°) in flexion, 0°-50° (mean, 30°) in external rotation, and corresponding to reaching the S5-T8 vertebral body level in internal rotation. During follow-up, no shoulder joint re-dislocation or severe shoulder instability occurred, and no revision surgery was performed. X-ray film reexamination showed that there was no loosening of the prosthesis. According to the evaluation criteria proposed by Boileau, the greater tuberosity fused in 22 cases (78.6%), displaced in 3 cases (10.7%), and absorbed in 3 cases (10.7%). The shoulder joint function and pain related evaluation indicators in the healed group were significantly better than those in the non-healed group (P<0.05). ConclusionTuberosity suture combined with autogenous bone grafting is a relatively simple procedure that provides a reliable fixation for the anatomic recovery of greater and lesser tuberosities and is beneficial for the recovery of shoulder function in elderly patients with proximal humeral fractures.
Objective To explore the effectiveness of thumb blocking technique through closed reduction of ulnar Kirschner wire threading in the treatment of Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humerus fractures in children. MethodsThe clinical data of 58 children with Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humerus fractures treated with closed reduction of ulnar Kirschner wire threading by thumb blocking technique between January 2020 and May 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 31 males and 27 females with an average age of 6.4 years ranging from 2 to 14 years. The causes of injury were falling in 47 cases and sports injury in 11 cases. The time from injury to operation ranged from 24.4 to 70.6 hours, with an average of 49.6 hours. The twitch of ring and little fingers was observed during operation, the injury of ulnar nerve was observed after operation, and the healing time of fracture was recorded. At last follow-up, the effectiveness was evaluated by Flynn elbow score, and the complications were observed. Results There was no twitch of the ring and little fingers when the Kirschner wire was inserted on the ulnar side during operation, and the ulnar nerve was not injured. All children were followed up 6-24 months, with an average of 12.9 months. One child had postoperative infection in the operation area, local skin redness and swelling, and purulent secretion exudation at the eye of the Kirschner wire, which was improved after intravenous infusion and regular dressing change in the outpatient department, and the Kirschner wire was removed after the initial healing of the fracture; 2 children had irritation at the end of the Kirchner wire, and recovered after oral antibiotics and dressing change in the outpatient department. There was no serious complication such as nonunion and malunion, and the fracture healing time ranged from 4 to 6 weeks, with an average of 4.2 weeks. At last follow-up, the effectiveness was evaluated by Flynn elbow score, which was excellent in 52 cases, good in 4 cases, and fair in 2 cases, and the excellent and good rate was 96.6%. ConclusionThe treatment of Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humerus fractures in children by closed reduction and ulnar Kirschner wire fixation assisted with thumb blocking technique is safe and stable, and will not cause iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury.
To investigate the method and cl inical effect of double-plating fixation in treatment of distal humerus fractures. Methods From April 2003 to January 2009, 21 patients with distal humerus fracture were treated with l imited contact compression plate and reconstruction plate via posterior elbow incision and approach inside and outside the edge of both sides of the triceps. There were 12 males and 9 females, aged from 20 to 63 years (39 years on average). The causes of injury were fall ing in 13 cases, traffic accident in 6 cases, and fall ing from height in 2 cases. According to the classification of Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF), 8 cases were classified as type 12-B1, 2 as type 12-B2, 7 as type12-B3, 3 as type 13-A2, and 1 as type 13-A3. The course of disease averaged 4.8 days. Results Secretion was observed at incision in 1 case 2 weeks after operation, and incision healed after dressing change; other incisions healed by first intention. Transient numbness of ring and l ittle fingers occurred in 2 cases 2 days after operation; no iatrogenic nerve paralysis occurred. All patients were followed up 13 to 18 months (15 months on average). The X-ray films showed bone healed 6 months after operation. No postoperative joint adhesion occurred, and the motion of elbow joint ranged from 0° to 135°. According to Morrey evaluation standard, the results were excellent in 17 cases, good in 2 cases, and fair in 2 case; the excellent and good rate was 90.5%. Conclusion Double-plating fixation has the advantages of wide indications, rigid internal fixation, and significant curative effects in treatment of distal humerus fractures.
【Abstract】 Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of artifical humeral head replacement in treatment of complicatedfractures of the proximal humerus. Method Between January 2005 and January 2011, 18 patients with proximal humerusfracture were treated with artifical humeral head replacement. There were 8 males and 10 females with a mean age of 71 years (range, 52-84 years). Fractures were caused by falling in 11 cases, by traffic accident in 3 cases, and by bruise in 4 cases. The time between injury and admission was 2 hours to 3 days (mean, 1.5 days). According to Neer classification, 8 cases had three-part fracture, 7 four-part fracture, and 3 cleavage fracture of humeral head; 5 cases complicated by shoulder joint subluxation, 2 cases by femoral fracture, 1 case by radial fracture, and 11 cases by osteoporosis. All the patients were treated with modular cemented prostheses. Results The operation time was 60-180 minutes with an average of 80 minutes; the blood loss was 100-400 mL with an average of 200 mL. All incisions healed by first intention without infection or neurovascular injury. Sixteen patients were followed up 3 years on average (range, 1-6 years). No loosening, dislocation of prothesis or heterotopic ossification occurred. According to the Neer scores, the results were excellent in 5 cases, good in 8 cases, moderate in 2 cases, and poor in 1 case at 1 year after operation. The excellent and good rate was 81.2%. Conclusion Artificial humeral head replacement is a good therapy for patients with complicated fractures of the proximal humerus, especially for elderly patients.
ObjectiveTo review the advancement made in the understanding of valgus impacted proximal humeral fracture (PHF). MethodsThe domestic and foreign literature about the valgus impacted PHF was extensively reviewed and the definition, classification, pathological features, and treatment of valgus impacted PHFs were summarized. Results PHF with a neck shaft angle ≥160° is recognized as a valgus impacted PHF characterized by the preservation of the medial epiphyseal region of the humeral head, which contributes to maintenance of the medial periosteum’s integrity after fracture and reduces the occurrence of avascular necrosis. Therefore, the valgus impacted PHF has a better prognosis when compared to other complex PHFs. The Neer classification designates it as a three- or four-part fracture, while the AO/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF) categorizes it as type C (C1.1). In the management of the valgus impacted PHF, the selection between conservative and surgical approaches is contingent upon the patient’s age and the extent of fracture displacement. While conservative treatment offers the advantage of being non-invasive, it is accompanied by limitations such as the inability to achieve anatomical reduction and the potential for multiple complications. Surgical treatment includes open reduction combined with steel wire or locking plate and/or non-absorbable suture, transosseous suture technology, and shoulder replacement. Surgeons must adopt personalized treatment strategies for each patient with a valgus impacted PHF. Minimally invasive surgery helps to preserve blood supply to the humeral head, mitigate the likelihood of avascular necrosis, and reduce postoperative complications of bone and soft tissue. For elderly patients with severe comminuted and displaced fractures, osteoporosis, and unsuitable internal fixation, shoulder joint replacement is the best treatment option. ConclusionCurrently, there has been some advancement in the classification, vascular supply, and management of valgus impacted PHF. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to assess the clinical safety, biomechanical stability, and indication of minimally invasive technology.
ObjectiveTo analyze the effectiveness of proximal humeral internal locking system (Philos) plate for proximal humerus fracture. MethodsThirty-three patients with proximal humerus fracture were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with Philos plate between January 2009 and January 2014. There were 19 males and 14 females, aged 23-89 years (mean, 56.6 years). The left side was involved in 15 cases, and the right side in 18 cases. The injury causes included falling in 20 cases and traffic accident in 13 cases. All cases received X-ray and CT scan and three-dimensional reconstruction before operation. According to the Neer classification, 8 cases were rated as two-part fractures, 15 cases as three-part fractures, and 10 cases as four-part fractures. The interval time between injury and surgery was 1-7 days (mean, 3.67 days). Postoperative functional outcome was evaluated using the Constant-Murley score. ResultsInfection and liquefaction occurred in 2 cases respectively, which was cured after corresponding treatment; primary healing of wound was obtained in the other 29 cases. Five patients had shoulder pain. The patients were followed up 11-47 months (mean, 33 months). The mean time of fracture union was 7.5 months (range, 5-9 months) on the X-ray films. Humeral head necrosis occurred in 2 patients with Neer four-part fractures, and internal fixation failure occurred in 3 patients (2 screw broken and 1 plate broken) with four-part fractures (2 cases) and three-part fractures (1 case), which was cured after conservative treatment. At last follow-up, the mean Constant-Murley score was 70.5 (range, 42-90); the results were excellent in 3 cases, good in 21 cases, moderate in 6 cases, and poor in 3 cases. ConclusionSatisfactory results can be expected for proximal humeral fracture by using of the proximal humeral internal locking system plate based on strict indication and early rehabilitation training.
Objective To compare the effectiveness of ultrasound- and arthrography-assisted Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of Jakob type Ⅱ lateral condylar humerus fracture (LCHF) in children. Methods A clinical data of 101 children with Jakob type Ⅱ LCHF, who met the selection criteria and were admitted between April 2021 and April 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 47 cases were treated with ultrasound-assisted Kirschner wire fixation (group A), and 54 cases with arthrography-assisted surgery (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, cause of injury, fracture side, and disease duration between groups (P>0.05). Intraoperative fluoroscopy times, operation time, and hospital stay, Flynn elbow joint function score, and postoperative complications were recorded and compared between groups. X-ray examination was performed to observe the healing of fracture, and measure the carrying angle and the shaft-condylar angle (SCA). ResultsThe success rate of closed reduction was significantly higher in group A than in group B (P<0.05), and the intraoperative fluoroscopy times was significantly less in group A than in group B (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in operation time and hospital stay between groups (P>0.05). All children in both groups were followed up 12-18 months, with an average of 13.6 months. X-ray reexamination showed that the fractures of both groups healed, and the difference in healing time was not significant (P>0.05). At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in carrying angle and SCA between unaffected side and affected side in both groups and between groups A and B in affected side (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in Flynn elbow joint function score between groups (P>0.05). There were 18 cases of lateral spurs formation in group A, 1 case of pinning infection and 26 cases of lateral spurs formation in group B, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of the above complications (P>0.05). ConclusionCompared with the arthrography, the ultrasound-assisted Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of Jakob type Ⅱ LCHF in children can avoid the open reduction and decrease the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy, and obtain the good effectiveness.
Objective To compare the biomechanical properties of personalized Y-shaped plates with horizontal plates, vertical plates, and traditional Y-shaped plates in the treatment of distal humeral intra-articular fractures through finite element analysis, and to evaluate their potential for clinical application. Methods The study selected a 38-year-old male volunteer and obtained a three-dimensional model of the humerus by scanning his upper limbs using a 64-slice spiral CT. Four types of fracture-internal fixation models were constructed using Mimics 19.0, Geomagic Wrap 2017, Creo 6.0, and other software: horizontal plates, vertical plates, traditional Y-shaped plate, and personalized Y-shaped plate. The models were then meshed using Hypermesh 14.0 software, and material properties and boundary conditions were defined in Abaqus 6.14 software. AnyBody 7.3 software was used to simulate elbow flexion and extension movements, calculate muscle strength, joint forces, and load torques, and compare the peak stress and maximum displacement of the four fixation methods at different motion angles (10°, 30°, 50°, 70°, 90°, 110°, 130°, 150°) during elbow flexion and extension. Results Under dynamic loading during elbow flexion and extension, the personalized Y-shaped plate exhibits significant biomechanical advantages. During elbow flexion, the peak internal fixation stress of the personalized Y-shaped plate was (28.8±0.9) MPa, which was significantly lower than that of the horizontal plates, vertical plates, and traditional Y-shaped plate (P<0.05). During elbow extension, the peak internal fixation stress of the personalized Y-shaped plate was (18.1±1.6) MPa, which was lower than those of the other three models, with significant differences when compared with horizontal plates and vertical plates (P<0.05). Regarding the peak humeral stress, the personalized Y-shaped plate model showed mean values of (10.9±0.8) and (13.1±1.4) MPa during elbow flexion and extension, respectively, which were significantly lower than those of the other three models (P<0.05). Displacement analysis showed that the maximum displacement of the humerus with the personalized Y-shaped plate during elbow flexion was (2.03±0.08) mm, slightly higher than that of the horizontal plates, but significantly lower than that of the vertical plates, showing significant differences (P<0.05). During elbow extension, the maximum displacement of the humerus with the personalized Y-shaped plate was (1.93±0.13) mm, which was lower than that of the other three models, with significant differences when compared with vertical plates and traditional Y-shaped plates (P<0.05). Stress contour analysis showed that the stress of the personalized Y-shaped plate was primarily concentrated at the bifurcation of the Y-shaped structure. Displacement contour analysis showed that the personalized Y-shaped plate effectively controlled the displacement of the distal humerus during both flexion and extension, demonstrating excellent stability. ConclusionThe personalized Y-shaped plate demonstrates excellent biomechanical performance in the treatment of distal humeral intra-articular fractures, with lower stress and displacement, providing more stable fixation effects.
Objective To explore the cl inical effects of different operative procedures in treatment of upper humerus fracture nonunion. Methods From May 2001 to September 2007, 43 cases of upper humerus fractures nonunion were treated, including 31 males and 12 females with an average age of 37 years (range, 20-57 years). The causes were trafficaccident injury in 14 cases, fall ing injury from height in 11 cases, tumbl ing injury in 7 cases, heavy pound injury in 6 cases, machine injury in 4 cases, and pathological injury in 1 case. The time from fracture to hospital ization was 10-52 months (23 months on average). After open reduction, patients were treated respectively by bone-graft plus locking compression plate fixation (9 cases), scapula flap rotation displacement plus locking compression plate fixation (15 cases), and scapula flap rotation displacement plus locking compression plate plus tibia bone lamella fixation (19 cases). Results All incisions healed by first intention. The X-ray films showed good fracture reduction. No symptoms of infection and nerve injury occurred. Forty-three patients were followed up 12 to 25 months with an average of 18 months. All of them achieved radiographic union within 3.0 to 7.5 months (4.9 months on average). According to comprehensive assessing standard of X-ray film and functions of shoulder and elbow, the results were excellent in 21 cases, good in 15 cases, fair in 4 cases, and poor in 3 cases; the excellent and good rate was 83.7%. Conclusion In the treatment of upper humerus fractures nonunion, locking compression plate can provide stable fixation. It can achieve satisfactory results so long as the right method of bone graft is chosen according to fracture site situation. But for patients undergoing repeated surgery or having nonunion for long times and poor fracture site situation, after open reduction, scapula flap rotation displacement plus locking compression plate plus tibia bone lamella fixation has good outcome.