Total elbow arthroplasty versus open reduction and internal fixation for the management of distal humerus fractures in the elderly

Abstract

Distal humerus fractures, which are challenging injuries seen in geriatric patients, are often repaired using open reduction and internal fixation or total elbow arthroplasty. This updated meta-analysis, which includes more recent open reduction and internal fixation techniques, examined outcomes following distal humerus fractures repaired using open reduction and internal fixation vs total elbow arthroplasty. Although distal humerus fractures treated with total elbow arthroplasty achieved statistically higher functional scores relative to those treated with open reduction and internal fixation, this difference was not clinically significant. Furthermore, the authors found no early difference in the use of either open reduction and internal fixation or total elbow arthroplasty in the management of distal humerus fractures. Choice of treatment should be based on patients' long-term demands and anticipated need for implant longevity.