A prospective study of functional outcome of intra-articular fractures Of distal humerus treated with locking compression plate

BACKGROUND: Distal humerus fractures constitutes approx 30% of all the elbow fractures and are the most challenging fractures for orthopaedicians to manage. These fractures are distributed in a bi-modal fashion with the first peak being seen in the young population resulting from high-energy trauma and the second peak being seen in the elderly osteoporotic population. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome of intra-articular fractures of distal humerus treated with locking compression plate. METHODS: This prospective study included 30 patients who underwent open reduction internal fixation for intra-articular fracture of distal humerus using locking compression plate and have given written, informed consent. Sample size was calculated using post-hoc analysis and patients were enrolled with 80% power and 95% significance. Functional outcome assessment was done using Mayo Elbow Performance Score. RESULTS: In our study mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 79 (p<0.05). Out of total patients 30% patients showed excellent results and 46.7% patients showed good results. CONCLUSIONS: No case of implant failure or non-union was reported in our study. We conclude that distal humerus locking compression plate is a versatile implant providing strong fixation,thus providing early rehabilitation.