Functional Outcome of Comminuted Fracture Shaft of Humerus Operated by Minimally Invasive Anterior Plate Osteosynthesis – A Prospective Study

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) has been advocated as a safe approach to humeral shaft fracturemanagement.Aim: This study aims to analyze and evaluate the functional outcome of surgical management of comminuted shaft of humerusby minimally invasive anterior plate osteosynthesis.Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, patients with humeral shaft fractures were included in the study. All thepatients with a comminuted diaphyseal fracture of humerus underwent MIPO technique. Constant–Murley score for shoulderand Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) for elbow were assessed postoperatively at 3 months, 6 months, and 2 yearsfollow-up and score calculated at each visit.Results: In 15 patients, the mean Constant score was 87 on the affected side and 90.67 on the unaffected side. The meanMEPS was 97.33 ranging from 85 to 100. The mean surgical time with MIPO was 69 min (range 60–90 min). The averageblood loss with MIPO was 109 ml (range 75–150 min).Conclusion: MIPO of the humerus gives good functional and cosmetic results and should be considered one of the managementoptions in the treatment of humeral diaphyseal fractures.