6533b81ffe1ef96bd1277c87

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Three-dimensional distribution of trabecular bone density and cortical thickness in the distal humerus

Stefan GreinerBerend LinkeGerd DiederichsJ. KornerAhi-sema Issever

subject

AdultMaleHumeral FracturesSensitivity and SpecificityAbsorptiometry PhotonImaging Three-DimensionalSex FactorsBone DensityCadaverElbow JointImage Interpretation Computer-AssistedCadaverConfidence IntervalsmedicineHumansOrthopedics and Sports MedicineHumerusQuantitative computed tomographyAgedProbabilityAged 80 and overBone mineralOsteosynthesismedicine.diagnostic_testbusiness.industryAge FactorsReproducibility of ResultsImplant failureGeneral MedicineAnatomyHumerusMiddle AgedDiaphysismedicine.anatomical_structureBone TrabeculaeFemaleSurgeryDiaphysesTomography X-Ray ComputedElbow InjuriesbusinessEpiphyses

description

One major barrier to osteosynthesis in distal humeral fractures is poor bone quality. This study was an attempt to measure the bone quality in the distal humerus.We measured the distribution of total bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular BMD (tBMD), and cortical thickness (CTh) in the distal humerus using peripheral quantitive computed tomography. Four slices in the infracondylar, supracondylar, and distal disphyseal regions of 25 human cadaver humeri were investigated.Total BMD decreased continuously from the distal diaphysis to the trochlea. Within the infracondylar region, the capitellum was the region of lowest tBMD and CTh (P.001). Measurements in anterior regions were higher than in most others (P.001). The tBMD of the medial column in the infracondylar and supracondylar regions was 31% and 36% higher vs the lateral column (P.001). The medial column had an average 22% higher CTh in the supracondylar and 38% higher CTh in distal diaphyseal regions vs the lateral sides (P.001).Distal humeral bone properties vary widely, providing stronger bone stock on the medial side. This may improve understanding of implant failure and techniques in surgical treatment.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2008.11.001