Abstract Issue

Volume 7 Issue 1 ( January-June) 2018

Original Articles

Clinico-radiological Outcome Analysis of Parallel Plating with Perpendicular Plating in Distal Humeral Intra-articular Fractures
Dr. Abhishek Upadhyay, Dr. Aniruddha M. Jagtap

Background: The elbow joint's integrity is important for the proper functioning of the entire upper limb, and serious conditions result if it is impaired, especially by distal humeral fractures.The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinico-radiological outcomes of dual plating techniques (parallel and perpendicular configurations) in the management of distal humeral intra-articular fractures. The study aimed to assess functional recovery, radiological healing, range of motion, and postoperative complications.Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational clinical study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, including 80 patients diagnosed with AO/OTA Type C intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus. Patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with dual plating, with the choice of parallel or perpendicular plating based on the fracture pattern and surgeon’s discretion. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, while radiological healing was evaluated through serial X-rays. Patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months.Results: The mean age of the study population was 45.2 ± 12.5 years, with 52 males (65%) and 28 females (35%). Functional assessment showed a statistically significant improvement in MEPS and DASH scores (p < 0.0001), with most recovery occurring within the first 6 months. Radiological union was observed in 72.5% of patients at 3 months, 96.3% at 6 months, and 100% at 12 months, with a malunion rate of 3.8% and a non-union rate of 1.3%. Range of motion improved significantly, with mean flexion reaching 130° and extension deficits reducing to 5° at 12 months (p < 0.0001). Complications were noted in 25% of patients, with ulnar nerve dysfunction (7.5%), superficial infections (6.3%), and hardware failure (3.8%) being the most common.Conclusion: Both parallel and perpendicular plating provided high union rates and significant functional recovery in distal humerus fractures. Most patients regained satisfactory range of motion within 12 months, with early mobilization playing a critical role. While complication rates were within acceptable limits, ulnar nerve dysfunction and hardware-related issues remained concerns. The study suggests that the choice of plating configuration should be individualized based on fracture characteristics and surgeon expertise. Further long-term studies are recommended to assess the durability of implants and functional outcomes over time.

 
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