Abstract: Introduction: The treatment of fractures of the distal humerus is difficult and involves the risk of bad functional results, particularly with articular fractures or impaired bone quality. Anatomical reconstruction and rigid fixation allowing early mobilization of the elbow are the basic prerequisites for good clinical outcomes. The aim of our study was to evaluate outcome of intercondylar fractures of distal humerus.
Patients and methods: The study included prospective or retrospective analysis of 28 cases of intercondylar fracture of distal humerus. There were 3 C1, 15C2 and 10 C3 type of fractures as per AO classification in our study. Patients were operated by 90-90 plating using olecranon osteotomy or Campbell’s approach. Results were evaluated by post-operative X-rays, mayo elbow performance score and range of motion measurements.
Results: Male to female ratio in our study was 1.15:1. Mean age in study was 41.3±17.0 yrs. Most common mode of injury was fall from height followed by road traffic accident. Mean duration of interval between injury and surgery was 7.1±7.3 days and mean duration of hospital stay was 10.3±6.1 days. 85.72% of patients in had excellent to good results. Mean range of motion in our study was 100.6±20.0 degrees. Complications included 1 case of transient ulnar nerve neuropathy, one case of deep infection, one case of malunion, and one case of delayed union.
Conclusions: Open reduction and internal fixation with 90-90 plating provides reliable, rigid fixation allowing early functional mobilization of the elbow joint. Distal humeral locking plates proved to be useful in C3 type of fractures and in elderly osteoporotic bones. Complication rates in the study were low and comparable to studies in literature.
