title: Surgical treatment of AO type C distal humeral fractures: internal fixation with a Y-shaped reconstruction (Lambda) plate.
abstract: Although surgical repair is considered the standard treatment for intraarticular distal humeral fractures, most investigators have assessed its results using dual-plate fixation in 2 planes. The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcome of open reduction and internal fixation of these complex fractures using Y-shaped reconstruction plates. We identified 17 patients who had operative treatment for Arbeitsgemeinschaft Für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type 1, 3-C fractures using a Y-shaped Lambda plate (Zimmer, Warsaw, IN). Patients were recalled for follow-up that included recording of a complete history, physical examination, radiographic evaluation, and completion of a limb-specific questionnaire. The mean duration of follow-up was 37.3 months. The average loss of extension was 13 degrees , and the average arc of flexion-extension was 112 degrees . As determined by the Mayo Elbow Performance Index, 6 were graded excellent; 8, good; 3, fair; and none, poor. Surgical repair of intraarticular distal humeral fractures by open reduction and internal fixation with a Lambda plate is an effective procedure that allows for stable osteosynthesis without loss of reduction or fixation as a basis for good functional outcome.
authors.affiliation: Sercice d'Orthopédie-Traumatologie, Centre Hospitalier d'Annecy, Annecy CEDEX, France.
authors.forename: Matthias
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Luegmair
authors.forename: Evelin
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Timofiev
authors.forename: Jean-Marie
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Chirpaz-Cerbat
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D012086:Reoperation; D016896:Treatment Outcome