Submuscular double bridge plating for complex distal fractures of the humerus: an alternative, safe, and efficient treatment method.

PURPOSE: The aim of our study is to show the functional outcomes and complication rates of humeral complex fractures in adults, using osteosynthesis with two bridging orthogonal submuscular plates.

METHODS

The study consists of a prospective case series of 13 patients with isolated humeral complex fractures treated with two bridging orthogonal submuscular plates. Functional assessment was performed using disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score with 30 items. The age ranged from 22 to 68 years, with a mean age of 39 years. Functional assessment with DASH score was performed at the twelfth postoperative week.

RESULTS

All patients presented fracture healing in the fourth postoperative month. Of the 13 patients, five (38%) had a DASH score of zero (best function possible). One patient developed neuropraxis and presented with a score of 100 (worst possible). One case developed superficial infection, which was treated with oral antibiotics and local debridement.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated satisfactory functional outcome in patients with distal-third diaphyseal humeral complex fractures treated with two locked submuscular plates. The authors consider it as a safe method and an efficient alternative, especially in younger patients who require early functional recovery.