Outcomes after Open Reduction and Plate Fixation of Distal Humerus Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Distal humerus fractures (DHFs) have been a serious challenge since the beginning of surgery. The outcome of surgical treatment of a DHF should not only be assessed with clinical ratings. It is also important to take into account the patient's subjective evaluation of limb function.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 26 patients after surgical treatment of DHF. The Quick DASH (QDASH) scale was used to assess the subjective results of surgical treatment of DHF, and the objective Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was used to assess the clinical outcome. Relationships between the subjective and objective scores were tested with Pearson's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS: 85% of the patients had excellent or good QDASH scores, and 65% of patients had excellent or good MEPS scores. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the subjective and objective assessments was -0.91, indicating total dependence.

CONCLUSIONS: Open reduction and internal fixation using two perpendicular plates allows for achieving good stability of fixation, early rehabilitation and quick return to the desired level of activity, which contributes to a high percentage of good objective and subjective results of treatment. Subjective assessment of upper limb function after DHF surgery fully correlates with objective assessment.