Evaluation of Results of Intercondylar Fracture of Humerus in Adults Treated by Various Surgical Modalities

Abstract

The intercondylar fractures of humerus were treated conservatively because of lack of experience of individual surgeon and rarity of these fractures. Conservative treatment of intercondylar fractures of humerus resulted in loss of elbow movement and permanent disability. Any treatment which requires prolonged immobilization risks loss of elbow function from fibrosis or ankylosis of the joint. Due to the above problems and the recent advances which made understanding of the joint mechanics and alignment better, the need of restoration has been understood. Later, to restore the joint, many surgeons tried closed manipulation, skeletal traction and percutaneous restoration of fragments but could not achieve good results. In the recent years, with fabrication of newer implants and with better surgical exposures, results of patients with intercondylar fractures of humerus have improved a lot. In spite of all these it is well known that anyone who has operated upon these badly broken and comminuted fractures of the lower end of humerus must have been impressed by the extreme difficulty of fixing the fragments in their proper position 4. The present study is to evaluate the results of intercondylar fractures of distal humerus treated and in management with various surgical modalities. 20 cases of intercondylar fractures of humerus have been done by open reduction and internal fixation, 10 cases had excellent results, 5 had good, 3 had fair and 2 had poor results in our study. In summary, the concept of open reduction and internal fixation of intercondylar fractures of the humerus with dual plates is very valuable, in restoring articular surface and early rehabilitation decreasing morbidity, resulting good results.