A comparative study of olecranon osteotomy approach and triceps reflecting approach in osteosynthesis of distal humerus fracture in adults Krishna K. Ramesh*, Professor, Aradhana T. R., Senior Resident, Preetham N, Post graduate Department of Orthopaedics, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore *Corresponding Author: E-mail: drrameshkrishna@gmail.com
Online published on 30 March, 2015. Abstract Introduction Olecranon osteotomy provides a good exposure of the fracture site for distal humerus fracture fixation. However, it is not without its potential disadvantages of delayed union, non-union at osteotomy site and other implant related complications. Triceps reflecting approaches are known to avoid these complications. The aim of our study was to compare the outcomes in the two surgical approaches by assessing the radiological union, the functional outcome by MEPI score and complications associated with each approaches. Methods 40 consecutive patients were alternatively allotted into two groups. Group A had 20 patients treated surgically by trans-olecranon approach. Group B had 20 patients treated surgically by triceps reflecting approach. Patients were followed up for period of 24 months. Patients were assessed for stability of fixation, radiological union, the functional outcome using MEPI, and the complications in each group were reported. Results Regardless of the fracture and implant type, functional mobility, elbow function, patient satisfaction, and quality-of-life assessments were comparable between the groups at three and twelve months. No significant differences were found in the functional outcome. But olecranon osteotomy approach group were associated with more complications Conclusion Trans-olecranon and triceps reflecting approaches are similar in their functional outcomes but complication rates are higher in trans olecranon approach. Top Keywords AO classification, Distal humerus locking plates, MEPI, Trans-olecranon approach, Triceps reflecting approach, orthogonal plating. Top |