A prospective study of functional outcome in intraraticular lower end of humerus fracture treated with dual plating

Abstract

Introduction: Lower end of humerus fractures are uncommon and intra-articular in adults, often involve both the medial and lateral columns. Treatment of these fractures is difficult and involves the risk of unfavourable results. Anatomical reconstruction and rigid fixation following early mobilization of the elbow are the prerequisite required for a good clinical outcome. The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome in intra-articular fracture of the lower end of humerus treated with dual plating. Materials and methods: A prospective study of 20 patients of comminuted intra-articular fracture lower end of humerus treated surgically with, dual plating using standard dorsal approach, olecranon osteotomy with a follow up period of 24 months. Results: The average age was between 20 – 54 years, with mean of 37.5 yaers. 16 cases (80%) road traffic accident as major cause of injury. Most of the patients were male 14 (70%) with dominant limb involvement in 14 (70%) cases. According to MEP score clinical outcome was excellent in 4 (25%), good 10 (50%), fair in 5(20 %) and poor in 1 (5 %). Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation with dual plating provides reliable, rigid fixation following an early functional mobilization of the elbow joint and acts as an extrameddulary load bearing device, stabilizing fracture fragment and ensuring bony union in fracture lower end of humerus with intraarticular extension.