Efficacy of bilateral parallel anatomic plate fixation for type C distal humerus fractures

Objective To investigate the efficacy of bilateral parallel anatomic plate fixation for type C distal humerus fractures.Methods From January 2009 to December 2013,26 cases with type C distal humerus fractures were treated of open reduction and bilateral parallel anatomic plate fixation.There were 12 cases for type C1,8 cases for type C2,6 cases for type C3 according to Association for the Study of Internal Fixation(AO)classification.After one week postoperatively,all the patients began to function exercise.The follow-up included elbow functional recovery,radiologic examination,Aitken and Rorabeek elbow functional evaluation criteria.Results 26 patients were followed up for a mean period of 8.3 months(6 to 12 months),the fractures were healed.Elbow functional recovery of all the cases was satisfactory.According to Aitken and Rorabeek elbow functional evaluation criteria,14 cases were graded as excellent,9 cases as good and 3 cases as fair,the overall satisfactory rate was 88.5%.No complication such as postoperative infection,implant failure occured.Conclusions The efficacy of bilateral parallel anatomic plate fixation for type C distal humerus fractures is good.It is the ideal surgical procedures of type C distal humerus fractures.