Bilateral capitellum humeri fracture: A case report and review of the literature

OS Schindler
North Bristol NHS Trust, Orthopaedic Trauma Department, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom

We report a case of a 37-year-old woman who sustained a bilateral Hahn-Steinthal type fracture of her capitellum humeri. Open reduction and internal fixation, using extra-articular insertion of Herbert screws, were performed. Both elbows were immobilised for 3 weeks postoperatively. Radiographic signs of union were present at week 8. Within the observation period of 18 months, no signs of avascular necrosis were detected. At the end of the recovery period, despite intensive physiotherapy, the patient was left with a 20 degrees' loss of flexion in her right elbow and a 15 degrees' loss of extension in her left elbow. We found the use of Herbert screws particularly suitable for this type of injury: it allows good inter-fragmentary compression due to the sub-articular positioning that avoids the risk of damaging the articular surface. Mobilisation should start early to prevent joint stiffness and long-term disability.