Publication:

Functional outcome of elbow joint in AO type 13C fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation using dual plates

Background Distal end of the humerus, with its unique orientation of articular surfaces supported by a meagre amount of cancellous bone, makes its fracture a constant challenge to orthopaedic surgeons. Aim of the study is to evaluate the functional outcome of surgical management of intercondylar AO type C fractures of distal end of humerus using dual plating.

Methods A prospective study was conducted at our hospital between January 2015 to December 2016. Thirty five consecutive patients with intercondylar (AO Type C) fracture of distal humerus, included in study as per inclusion criteria. All patients were treated surgically using triceps reflecting approach and posterior trans-olecranon approach with ulnar nerve exploration and fixation using dual plating and tension band wiring for olecranon osteotomy wherever done.

Results In 35 patients, final results using MEPS scoring system excellent outcome is noticed in 15 patients (42.86%), good results is noticed in 13 patients (37.14%), fair result is noticed in 5 patients (14.29%) and poor result is noticed in 2 patients (5.71%). There was statistical significant difference in flexion range of movement arc at 2 and 6 months in our study.

Conclusions Open reduction and internal fixation of AO type 13C fractures is challenge to surgeon, preoperative planning and mastering the technique over a period of time gives good to excellent functional outcomes.