Management of Elderly Elbow Fractures

Abstract

Background: Elbow fractures are common in elderly patients with osteoporotic bones, typically resulting from falls on the elbow. Common fracture types include distal humerus, olecranon, and radial head fractures. Occasionally, a combination of these fractures occurs, creating complex injuries such as terrible triad injuries. Accurate evaluation using X-rays and CT scans is essential for optimal treatment planning. Careful preoperative planning, including the decision between non-operative and operative treatment and selecting appropriate surgical implants, is critical for achieving successful outcomes.

Objective: This chapter focuses on common elbow fractures in elderly patients and explores the available treatment options. Given the lack of clear consensus on managing elbow fractures in osteoporotic bones, we address the associated complications and highlight various treatment approaches.

Current knowledge: Numerous treatment methods have been proposed for osteoporotic elbow fractures, including various fixation techniques, arthroplasty, and excisions. Despite the availability of multiple treatment options, no method has emerged as superior. Each method has distinct advantages and disadvantages. This chapter aims to compile and compare these options, outlining their respective pros and cons.

Conclusions: Elbow fractures in osteoporotic bones present significant challenges for surgeons. Although elderly patients with osteoporotic bones generally have lower functional demands compared to younger individuals, they still require adequate, pain-free elbow function for daily activities. Advances in surgical techniques and implant technology have expanded treatment options for these fractures. Achieving successful outcomes requires selecting the appropriate implant, meticulous preoperative planning, and expert surgical execution tailored to the specific fracture characteristics.

Keywords: Elbow; Fractures; Osteoporosis; Radial head arthroplasty; Total elbow arthroplasty.