A Study to evaluate the Functional Outcomes after the Surgical Management of Intra Articular Fracture of Distal Humerus

Abstract

Introduction: The primary goal in management of intra articular fractures of distal humerus is to achieve stable and mobile elbow. The chances of functional impairment and deformities are very high following conservative treatment of such distal intra-articular fractures of humerus. Objectives of the study were to assess the functional outcome and to compare the results after surgical management of intra articular fracture of distal humerus using Mayo elbow performance index. & to assess the range of movements, pain and union. Methods: Retrospective Evaluation study with Review and Reports of 50 cases / patients, who were diagnosed & surgically managed. Fractures were classified as per AO type A to C (except C3 comminuted) and were included in this study in whom internal fixation was done using triceps reflecting Bryan Morrey approach with some modification in few cases. Results: No patient achieved complete extension. No limitation in the pronation-supination was detected. Radiographic assessment Postoperative and follow up radiographs showed adequate fracture reduction and fracture healing in all patients. No step off more than one mm was seen. All patients had completed postoperative physical therapy at the time of the study and had achieved maximum function of elbow. Conclusion: Triceps reflecting Bryan Morrey approach is a simple and effective approach that can be used in management of the majority of the distal humeral fractures as it provides adequate visualization and reduction fracture fragments with no adverse effect on triceps muscle strength