Distal Humerus Fracture in a 28-Year-Old Male with Achondroplasia Treated with Reconstruction Plate: Case Report and Review of Literature.

INTRODUCTION

Achondroplasia, the most common skeletal dysplasia, presents unique challenges in fracture management due to rhizomelic shortening and abnormal bone geometry. This case report details the surgical management of a distal humerus fracture in an adult with achondroplasia using dual reconstruction plate fixation.

CASE REPORT: A 28-year-old right-hand-dominant male with achondroplasia sustained a closed, comminuted intra-articular distal humerus fracture (AO/OTA type C3) after a motor vehicle accident. Following thorough evaluation and preoperative planning, the fracture was addressed surgically through a posterior approach with chevron olecranon osteotomy. Dual 3.5-mm reconstruction plates were contoured and applied orthogonally. Early range-of-motion exercises commenced 72 h postoperatively. At 6 months, the patient achieved 10-110° elbow flexion-extension, 70° pronation/supination, and a Mayo Elbow Performance Score of 85 ("good"). Union was radiologically confirmed at 14 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Reconstruction plate osteosynthesis with meticulous surgical technique yields a stable fixation, union, and good functional recovery in distal humerus fractures with underlying achondroplasia.