Paratricipital two window approach for complex intraarticular distal humerus fractures: A prospective analysis of 27 patients / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

ABSTRACT

Background:@#To investigate the utility and complications of paratricipital 2 window approach for complex intra articular distal humerus fractures (AO/OTA type C).@*Methods:@#Between December 2012 and September 2016, 27 patients (male-14, female-13) having mean age of 39 years (range, 22-62 years) with closed intra articular fracture (AO/OTA 13 type C) were surgically managed using paratricipital 2 window approach. Fractures were fixed as per AO principles. All patients were followed up for 21 months (range, 12-28 months) prospectively. Functional outcome was measured using Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and complications were observed. Student ttest, Pearson co-relation coefficient and Kruskal Wallis test used for statistical evaluation.@*Result:@#All cases unite by the end of 3 months. Mean flexion achieved was 120° and extension lag was 10°. Mean arc of motion was 111°. Mean pronation and supination was 70° and 77° respectively. MEPS and motion arc were weak negatively co-related with surgical delay and advancement in age. Postoperative transient ulnar nerve palsy and heterotrophic ossification (HO) was noted in 3.7% cases and infection occurred in 7.4% cases. Hardware prominence noted in 11.1% cases. Mean MEPS was 82. MEPS was excellent in 18.5%, good in 62.9%, fair in 11.1% and poor in 7.4% cases.@*Conclusion:@#Paratricipital 2 window approach for these fractures had good functional outcome with fewer complications. We advocate paratricipital 2 window approach when dealing with these complex fractures particularly, in type C1 and type C2.