Predictors of Adverse Events in the Surgical Treatment of Adult Distal Humerus Fractures

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify surgical complications after distal humerus fracture fixation as well as correlations between these complications and patient variables. A total of 132 patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation of traumatic distal humerus fractures between October 2011 and June 2018. Included were adult patients who underwent surgical fixation and had more than 6 months of follow-up. Excluded were patients with inadequate radiographic imaging, less than 6 months of follow-up, and previous distal humerus surgery. Multivariate logistic regression models controlling for age and body mass index were used to determine preoperative factors predictive of postoperative complications. A total of 73 patients were included in this analysis. Surgical complications were reported for 17 patients. Reoperation was required for 13 patients. Open injury at presentation was predictive of delayed union. Predictors of subsequent elbow surgery included younger age, polytrauma, open fracture, and ulnar nerve injury at the time of injury. Radial nerve injury at the time of presentation was also a risk factor for postoperative radial nerve symptoms. Predictors of postoperative heterotopic ossification included older age. Thirty-one patients had an olecranon osteotomy during their open reduction and internal fixation and none went on to nonunion. There were 13 patients with ulnar nerve complications. Of these patients, 3 had undergone an ulnar nerve transposition. None of the other studied variables were predictors of complications, malunion, or nonunion at latest follow-up. Although open reduction and internal fixation is effective in treating distal humerus fractures, its complications cannot be overlooked. Open fractures are more likely to go on to delayed union. Ulnar nerve injury, open fracture, and polytrauma were predictive for reoperation. Older patients were less likely to have subsequent surgery but more likely to develop heterotopic ossification. By identifying at-risk patients, managing physicians can better prognosticate and counsel patients on their recovery. [ Orthopedics . 2023;46(6):352–357.]