To Compare the Fixation of Distal Humerus Fracture by Orthogonal (90°–90°) Plating Versus Parallel Plating in Adults

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: A distal humerus fracture is defined as a fracture within a square of the lower end of the humerus where the base is the distance between the epicondyles of the humerus on an anteroposterior view of the radiograph. The most distal humerus fractures are due to high-energy trauma, such as road traffic accidents in adults, and in the elderly due to low-energy injuries, such as trivial falls. The purpose of this study was to analyze and evaluate the comparison of fixation of distal humerus fracture by orthogonal and parallel plating in adults. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was done among 30 patients having distal humerus fractures. The distal humerus fractures were managed with anatomical locking plates by orthogonal and parallel plating techniques through posterior approach and reduction, stable fixation, and functional outcome were assessed by using Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Results: The results revealed that all patients were followed up by using MEPS scoring and X-ray of the elbow in anteroposterior and lateral view. In our study, road traffic accidents were the most common mode of injury and the mean age was 43 years. By using the MEPS score, the results were excellent for 9 patients, good for 13 patients, fair for 3 patients, and poor for 5 patients. After comparison between orthogonal and parallel plating groups, there was no significant difference in the total range of flexion and extension, MEPS, and flexion–extension arc. Conclusion: The results conclude that in the management of distal humerus fracture, the plates applied orthogonally have no significant difference compared with the parallel plating technique. The plates applied in the orthogonal and parallel configuration by using appropriate surgical techniques provided stable fixation and anatomical reduction of distal humerus fractures.