Outcome of Intra-Articular Elbow Fracture Treated with Dual Plate Fixation

Background: Elbow fractures are a heterogeneous group of injuries ranging from simple non-displaced to complex with associated soft tissue injury.Intra-articular distal humeral fractures must be treated surgically with utmost precision for optimal recovery.Dual plate fixation is a relatively new technique that has shown good results in these complex injuries; however, its comparative effectiveness remains controversial.Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients between the ages of 19 and 70 years with intercondylar humeral fractures managed by surgical treatment using dual plating.The exclusions included unfit patients, compound fractures, and pediatric cases.The surgical procedure involved a posterior midline incision, olecranon osteotomy, and fixation with lag screws and dual plates in a 90-90 configuration.Postoperative care included elevation, early mobilization, and infection prophylaxis.Results: The commonest complication was stiffness in the elbow, affecting 20% of the patients, delayed healing in 16%, infection in 10%, and hand wasting in 8%.Based on the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 24% of the functional outcomes were excellent, while 40% had good results, 20% had fair, and 16% had poor results.The greatest number of fractures was sustained from road traffic accidents, 70%; more in males, 70%; and in the right upper limb, 60%.Conclusion: Dual plate fixation is an effective way to manage complex intra-articular elbow fractures, ensuring good functional outcomes and stability.While stiffness and delayed healing were significant complications, overall recovery and patient satisfaction were quite favourable.Further comparative studies are needed to refine techniques and improve outcomes.