Functional outcome of locking anatomical plate in extra articular fractures of the distal humerus

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Extra articular distal humerus fractures are difficult to treat with conventional implants like intra medullary nail, 4.5 DCP and dual plate. The present study aims to study the functional outcome of the extra articular distal humerus plate (EADHP).</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> 48 patients with displaced extra articular distal humerus fractures were included in the study. Inclusion criteria were age more than 18 years, closed fractures with or without radial nerve palsy and less than 3 weeks old trauma. Patients aged less than 18 years, those having open fractures, fractures more than 3 weeks old, non – unions and pathological fractures were excluded from the study. All patients were operated with EADHP. Clinically, the outcome was assessed by the disability of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score and elbow range of motion radiologically, union was evaluated on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> Out of 48 patients, 12 had AO type 12 A1 fracture, 26 patients had type B1 fractures and remaining 10 had type C1 fractures. Mean DASH score at final follow up was 18.1; range being 12.6 to 35.7 points. The mean elbow range of motion was 0 to 130 degrees (range: 120 to 140 degrees). The mean duration for complete radiological fracture union was 14 weeks, range being 12 to 18 weeks.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> The extraarticular distal humerus plate is an ideal implant for the fixation of distal humerus fractures since it provides good stability of fracture and enables early return to function.</p>