Functional outcome of type 13 C2 distal humerus fractures treated with precontoured locking plates

Abstract

Background: Distal humerus fractures pose the most challenging task in treatment, which can lead to poor functional outcomes. Anatomic reduction and internal fixation, along with early mobilization, are predicted to improve the functional outcomes. To evaluate the functional outcome, rate of malunion, and intercondylar fixation of distal humerus fractures treated with anatomically precontoured locking plates. Methods: Thirty patients of either sex admitted with type 13 C2 distal humerus fractures, were included in this prospective study. All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with anatomically precontoured locking plates and screws using the modified triceps tongue flap approach. Postoperatively, patients were followed up for 6 months. During follow-up, they were evaluated clinically, radiologically, and functionally by mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). The results were analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: A majority of the injuries were seen in males (66.7% vs. 33.3%). The mean age was 36.9 ± 14.7 years. The common mode of injury was through road traffic accident (66.7%). The right upper limb (76.7%) was the most common side involved. The overall excellent/good scores, according to the MEPS, were observed in 80% of the patients. The average time taken for the radiological union at the fracture site was 10.2 ± 2.1 weeks. The mean arc of extension-flexion at 6th weeks was 32.1°–104.1° and at 6th months was 11.5°–124.2°. The complications were early superficial infection (3.3%), ulnar neuropraxia (3.3%), delayed union (3.3%), malunion (3.3%), and chronic osteomyelitis (3.3%). Conclusion: Distal humerus fractures treated with anatomically precontoured locking plates was effective in preserving the functional outcome of the elbow.