Abstract

ABSTRACT :
BACKGROUND :
Isolated capitellar fractures are uncommon. Authors continue to differ about the preferred method of treatments and it's results on the post operative outcome.
OBJECTIVE:
Of This study: Is to evaluate the clinical and functional out come of operatively treated capitellar fracture with K.Wire , and furthermore to define the impact of fracture type on the out come.
PATIENTS AND METHOD:
A retrospective study carried out on 15 patients Sustaind closed capitellar fracture , 11 females , 4 males. The main age (16 – 58 years). the Operative treatment performed at a mean of 10 days, by open reduction through relatively limited lateral approach and internal fixation with k. wires. The evaluation of the functional outcome was by clinical and radiographic examination . The range of motion (ROM) by using of Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI), and The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scales , and self assessment questionnaires form.
RESULTS:
Eight patients type I , one type II , four type III , two type IV ,and three patients had ipsilateral radial head fracture,. two in association with type III , and one with type IV. All fractures healed , with no significant clinical instability or weakness. The mean ulno-humeral motion (UHM) was (95o-132o) . All patients had full forearm rotation, average flexion contracture was 15o (range (8o-35o). (P=0.05). The mean (MEPI) was (90±10) points, with seven excellent results and six good , and the mean (ASES) was 36±3 (30 to 40 points) in seven patients. Ipsilateral radial head fracture had no significant effect on the functional outcome.
CONCLUSION:
Good to excellent outcome with functional ulnohumeral motion (UHM) can be achieved following open reduction and minimal fixation with k. wires in the treatment of capitellar fractures.