Fractures of Distal Humerus Operated with Using Lambda Plate

ABSTRACT

Background: The goal of this study to determine functional outcome of open reduction and internal fixation with Lambda plate for intra/extra articular distal humerus fractures. Methods: 35 patients of communited intra-articular fractures distal humerus were operated. Out of 35, 23 (65%) were male, 12 (35%) were female, mean age of 38 year (range 17-67 years). According to classification proposed by Rise borough and Radin based on radiographic analysis, out of 35, 11 (31%) were type 2, 20(57%) were type 3 and rest of the patients were type 4 fractures. All fractures fixed with Lambda plate, inter- condylar fracture fix with malleolar screw or k-wire or both after trans olecranon osteotomy. Results: Mean follow-up of 11 months (range 6-15 months). Out of 35 patients 29 patients have complete radio-logical union within 4 months. None of the fracture go into non-union. Mean active elbow flexion was 1300 (range 900-1400) and active extension 150 (range 0-300), mean elbow flexion range exceeds 100 degree in 28 patients (80%), was between 600 and 1000 in 6(17%) and was less than 600 in one patient. Mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was 96 points (range 40-100). There were 30 excellent result (MEPS) 90-100 points, 2 good (75-89) 2 moderate result. Conclusion: Fracture of distal humerus fix with Lambda plate, malleolar screw after trans- olecranon osteotomy gave excellent results in term of fixation, stability and recovery of elbow functions.