Bilateral fractures of the capitulum

Abstract

We report a case of isolated displaced fracture of the capitulum in both elbows. Treatment was by closed manipulation and immobilisation for 3 weeks which achieved a satisfactory result, both elbows regaining 100 degrees of flexion.

Operative management of a shear fracture of the bilateral capitellum: A case report and review of the literature

“…After meticulous research in the English literature, only four cases were identified. Acharya et al 8 reported a case of a bilateral capitellar fracture treated with closed manipulation. Reduction was maintained in a back slab for three weeks, with achievement of union in both sides and a good clinical recovery after seven months of follow up.…”

“…Clinical recovery was found more promising in our patient comparing to ROM reported for bilateral fractures by the first three authors. 8 , 9 , 10 In the above mentioned cases, elbow was immobilized for a three-week period and rehabilitation of the joint was unable to restore a complete ROM, even when a stable ORIF was achieved. 10 In the most recent case reported, 11 cast was maintained for two weeks following a bilateral stable osteosynthesis of the capitulum humeri.…”

Fractures of the capitellum humeri in adolescents

“…Options include closed reduction [1,4], excision of the fragment [3,4,6] and open reduction with internal fixation [4,6]. Johansson and Rosman [6] described good results after excision of the capitellar fragment in an adolescent girl.…”