Abstract:

Objective　 To summarize surgical techniques and effects of AO distal humeral plate used as a treatment alternative for fracture of distal humerus.　Methods　From July 2007 to Feb. 2010, 30 cases of fracture of distal humerus were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with AO distal humeral plate (DHP). They were 12 males and 18 females. Their ages ranged from 60 to 80 years (average, 72 years). According to AO classification, 1 case was Type A, 7 were Type B, 5 were Type C1, 10 were Type C2, 7 were Type C3. Functional exercises began on the third day after operation. Functional results were evaluated according to the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS).　Results　24 patients were followed up for 11 to 30 months (average, 18 months). All fractures achieved complete union. The average ulnohumeral motion was (78±17.08）° (range, 10° to 135°), flexion （102±11.35）°(range, 90° to 135°), extension （20±8.20）°(range, 0° to 60°). The average MEPS was 85.3 points (range, 60 to 100 points). 11 cases were graded as excellent, 10 as good, 2 as fair, 1 as poor. 87.5% of the patients had an excellent or good functional result. 3 cases reported transient ulnar nerve paralysis, 3 slight symptoms of traumatic arthritis, 1 delayed union and elbow stiffness, 2 heterotopic ossification, 3 slight malformation.　Conclusions　AO distal humeral plate is a preferred treatment for fracture of distal humerus in the aged because of satisfactory bone healing, early mobilization, union of fracture and recovery of joint function.

Key words: Humeral, Fracture, Internal fixation, Aged