Double-plate osteosynthesis of the proximal ulna

• Published in: Operative Orthopädie und Traumatologie Vol. 27; no. 4; pp. 342 - 356
• Main Authors: Ries, C, Wegmann, K, Meffert, R H, Müller, L P, Burkhart, K J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01-08-2015
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Arthroplasty, Replacement, Elbow - instrumentation; Arthroplasty, Replacement, Elbow - methods; Bone Plates; Elbow Joint - injuries; Elbow Joint - surgery; Elbow Prosthesis; Equipment Failure Analysis; Fracture Fixation, Internal - instrumentation; Fracture Fixation, Internal - methods; Fracture Healing; Humans; Middle Aged; Prosthesis Design; Treatment Outcome; Ulna Fractures - diagnostic imaging; Ulna Fractures - surgery
• ISSN: 1439-0981
• DOI: 10.1007/s00064-014-0296-1

Stable osteosynthesis during early postoperative functional treatment, particularly in patients with osteoporosis.
Metaphyseal fractures, small proximal fragments or avulsion fracture of the triceps tendon, osteotomy of the olecranon, and pseudarthrosis of the olecranon or proximal ulna.
Skin infection, severe soft tissue lesions.
Dorsal approach to the olecranon. Open reduction and internal fixation by two side-mounted angular locking compression (double) plates.
Early functional treatment. Full load-bearing after 6-12 weeks postoperatively.
A total of 14 patients were treated with double-plate osteosynthesis between 2011 and 2012. Clinical data were analysed retrospectively. The average follow-up was 11.7 months (range, 4-21 months). The mean flexion-extension radius was 123° (100°-140°), the pro-supination radius 166° (160°-170°). Using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, eight patients had excellent and six good results. The mean Quick-DASH score was 15 (0-50).