Functional Outcome of Distal Humerus Intra-articular Fractures Treated with Pre-contoured Anatomical Locking Plates

Abstract

Introduction: The most difficult therapeutic challenge is treating humerus fractures, which might result in a subpar functional outcome. It is anticipated that early mobilization, anatomic reduction, and internal fixation will enhance the functional results. The purpose of this study is to assess the functional result, intercondylar fixation rate, and anatomically pre-contoured locking plate treatment of a distal humerus fracture. Material and Method: This prospective research included patients with type 13-C2 distal humerus fractures, regardless of sex, who were hospitalized. Using the modified triceps tongue flap method, all patients received open reduction and internal fixation with anatomic pre-contoured locking plates and screws. Patients underwent 6 months of follow-up after surgery. They had follow-up evaluations using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) for clinical, radiological, and functional assessments. The Chi-square test was used to analyze the outcomes. Observations: Males accounted for the majority of injuries (66.7% vs. 33.3%). The age distribution was 36.93 ± 14.67. Traffic accidents were the most common cause of injuries (66.7%). The most frequently affected side was the right upper limb (76.7%). Eighty percent of the patients had MEPS scores that were excellent or good overall. At the fracture site, the radiological union took an average of 10.2 ± 2.11 weeks. In the 6th week, the mean extension-flexion arc was 32.06°–104.06°, and in the 6th month, it was 11.55°–124.16°. Early superficial infection (3.3%), malunion (3.3%), ulnar neuropraxia (3.3%), and chronic osteomyelitis (3.3%) were the consequences. In conclusion, the functional result of the elbow was effectively preserved in distal humerus fractures treated with anatomic pre-contoured locking plates. Keywords: Elbow joint, distal humerus intra articular fractures, bone plates, articular range of motion, osteomyelitis, MEPS, pre-contoured anatomical locking plate.