Publication:

Study of surgical fixation of extra-articular distal third humerus fractures with a posterolateral locking compression plate

Background Fractures of the adult distal humerus account for approximately 2% of all fractures and represent a third of all humerus  fractures. Fractures of the distal third of the humerus are challenging injuries due to their peri-articular location, small size of the distal bone fragments, and the osteopenic quality of the bone in older adults.  Aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical, radiographic and functional outcomes of posterolateral locking compression plate for extra-articular distal third humerus fractures through posterior triceps splitting approach.

Methods This is a prospective study done at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna  in which 30 consecutive skeletally mature, closed extra-articular distal humerus fractures  underwent fixation with posterolateral  locking compression plate and outcome evaluated in terms of radiological  evidence of healing, functional outcome and complications if any.

Results Use of posterolateral plate results in predictably good union rates and excellent results terms of patient outcome without any implant related complications.

Conclusions We recommend using this posterolateral plate for these humerus fractures, because of its consistent results with respect to fracture union, stability across the fracture site and early mobilization for better functional results.