Functional outcome of extra-articular distal humerus fracture fixation using a single locking plate: A retrospective study. (24th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Trikha, Vivek; Agrawal, Prabhat; Das, Saubhik; Gaba, Sahil; Kumar, Arvind
• Is Part Of: Journal of orthopaedic surgery. Volume 25:Number 3(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-08-24
• Subjects: distal humerus -- extra-articular -- fracture -- locking plate -- outcome; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedic surgery; Periodicals; 617.3
• DOI: 10.1177/2309499017727948
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1022-5536

Abstract

Purpose: The optimal method for fixation of extra-articular distal humerus factures poses a management dilemma. Although various plate configurations have been proposed, anatomic shaped extra-articular distal humerus locking plates have emerged as a viable solution for these complex injuries. We assessed clinico-radiologic outcome in our retrospective case series of extra-articular distal humerus fractures managed with these plates. Methods: Forty-five patients of extra-articular distal humerus fractures, who were operated at our level 1 trauma centre between January, 2012 and December, 2016, were identified. After exclusion, 36 patients were available for the final assessment. All patients were operated with the triceps-reflecting modified posterior approach. Regular clinico-radiologic follow-up was done evaluating elbow functionality, fracture union, secondary displacement, non-union, implant failure and any complications; Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS) was used for the final functional assessment. Results: Twenty-four (66.7%) male and 12 (33.3%) female patients constituted the study group, who had an average follow-up of 15 months. Preoperatively three patients and post-operatively one patient had radial nerve palsy; all had neurapraxia and recovered completely. Overall, 34 (94.4%) patients were adjudged to have complete radiological union within 3 months; 2 (5.5%) patients developed non-union. Mean flexion achieved was 122.9° ± 23°, and mean extension was −4.03° ± 6.5°; 1 patient with head injury developed flexion deformity of 45°. Average MEPS at the final follow-up was 90.8° ± 9.9°. Conclusion: Stable reconstruction and early initiation of physiotherapy are utilitarian to envision optimal outcome; the use of precontoured extra-articular distal humerus locking plates has yielded satisfactory results with minimal complications in our hands.