Treatment for type C fractures of the distal humerus with the LCP distal humerus system

Background: Although the locking compression platedistal humerus system (LCP-DHS) is a biomechanically proven implant for fractures of the distal humerus, few have reported its clinical results. Methods: Thirteen cases of type C intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus according to AO classification that were treated with the LCP-DHS followed for a minimum of 1 year were enrolled for this study. The mean age at the time of operation was 46.8 years (range, 26-80 years), and the mean follow-up period was 25.1 months (range, 13-39 months). The timing of bone union, implant failure, and loosening around screws were assessed on simple radiographs. For clinical evaluations, we analyzed range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction. Results: Bone union was achieved radiologically in all cases. The mean timing of bone union was 8.5 weeks (range, 5-18 weeks) after operation. At the last follow-up, the mean range of motion was 16 degrees (range, 0-40 degrees) in flexion and 131 degrees (range, 130-150 degrees) in extension deficit. The MEPS was 87.3 points (range, 45-100 points); the DASH score, 17.6 points (range, 0-86.7 points); and the VAS, 1.5 (range, 0-4). Complications: included screw loosening and delayed union in 1 case, limited range of motion that led to adhesiolysis in 1 case, and transient ulnar nerve palsy in 1 case. Conclusions The internal fixation using the LCP-DHS for type C fractures of the distal humerus was stable, enabling early postoperative mobilization and good clinical results.