Radiological and functional outcomes of anterior bridge plating with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis technique for humerus diaphyseal fractures in adults

Abstract

Background: We conducted a study to evaluate radiological, functional outcomes and complications of internal fixation of humerus diaphyseal fractures by anterior bridge plating (ABP) with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis technique. Methods: 40 patients with humerus diaphyseal fractures operated by ABP with MIPO between August 2017 and January 2020 were included in the study. All patients were evaluated verbally, clinically, and radiologically for a minimum of 1 year. Results: Mean time to radiological union was 13.75 weeks. Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score improved from a mean of 23.45 to a mean of 5.04 at 6 months. All patients except one had an excellent Mayo Elbow Performance Score score at 6 months. The variation of mean shoulder range of motion between normal and operated side was within 5 degrees at 6 months. Visual Analogue Scale score improved from a preoperative mean of 8 to a postoperative mean of 0.5 at 6 months. Mean intraoperative blood loss was 147 ml. Two patients had a superficial wound infection, one patient had a postoperative radial nerve palsy, and one patient had a delayed union, all of which recovered without any surgical intervention. Conclusions: ABP with MIPO technique for humerus diaphyseal fractures is a safe and effective treatment modality yielding high rates of union, excellent functional recovery, minimal biological disruption, better cosmesis, and superior patient satisfaction. Therefore, we recommend that ABP with MIPO should be considered as an alternative treatment option in patients with humerus diaphyseal fractures.