Abstract

The authors retrospectively studied the clinical and radiographic outcomes of locking compressive plate (LCP) metaphyseal plate fixation through the anterolateral approach in patients treated surgically for unstable distal third humeral shaft fractures. Twenty seven patients were treated surgically with LCP metaphyseal plate using brachialis splitting methods through the anterolateral approach. The mean arc of elbow motion was 132.4° with a mean flexion of 133.5° and mean flexion contracture of 1.1°. Three patients had a slight elbow flexion contracture with loss of 5° (n = 1), 10° (n = 1), and 15° (n = 1) of extension. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 92.6 points, which corresponded to excellent results in 26 shoulders and a good result in one. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 90.7 points, which corresponded to excellent results in 24 elbows, a good result in 2, and a fair result in 1. Treatment of distal third humeral shaft fracture using LCP metaphyseal plate through the anterolateral approach is an acceptable and alternative method that can provide good results.