“Comparing Locking Compression Plate with Limited Contact Dynamic Compression Plate for the Treatment of Adult Diaphyseal both Bone Forearm Fractures”

Abstract

Introduction: The human forearm serves an important role in upper extremity function, facilitating placement of the hand in space, thus helping to provide the upper extremity with its unique mobility Fractures involving the bones of forearm present unique problem not encountered with fractures of other long bones. Objective: To evaluate and compare the outcomes of locking compression plate (LCP) with limited contact dynamic compression plate (LC-DCP) for the treatment of adult diaphyseal both bone forearm fractures. Material and Methods: This study conducted in the Department of orthopedics, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2018 to December 2020 included 20 patients with 40 fractures in each group. Patients were selected randomly to receive either LCP (20 patients, 40 fractures) or LC-DCP (20 patients, 40 fractures). Operative time, callus formation, functional outcome and complications were recorded. Results: Mean operative time did not differ significantly in the LCP and LC-DCP group (71.25 and 75.70 minutes respectively) .There was some difference in callus formation and mean time to bone union between the two groups which was significant. However, overall functional outcome did not differ significantly between both the groups. One case had delayed union in the (LC-DCP) group while one patient in each group developed superficial infection. Conclusion: In this prospective study comparing LCP with LC-DCP, the outcomes were equal in terms of final functional outcomes and mean operating time but LCP showed slight advantage in terms of callus formation and mean time to bone union.