Periprosthetic Humeral Shaft Fracture about Total Elbow Arthroplasties Managed with Medial and Lateral Femoral Strut Allografts and Implant Retention: A Case Report.

Abstract

Introduction: Expanding indications for total elbow arthroplasty in recent years have led to increased occurrence of complications, such as periprosthetic elbow fracture, which can occur in up to 12% of cases. Several management options for periprosthetic elbow fracture have been suggested in literature; however, there is currently no accepted guideline for treatment.

Case report: We present two cases of periprosthetic humerus fractures without implant loosening multiple years after the index procedures. They were treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) utilizing a plate with medial and lateral cortical strut femoral allografting with implant retention.

Conclusion: Two cases of periprosthetic humerus fractures about total elbow arthroplasties were successfully treated with ORIF with medial and lateral cortical strut augmentation. Treatment for periprosthetic elbow fractures should be tailored to each patient based on factors, such as stability of implant, bone stock, and patient goals.