Comparison of Short Outcome of Orthogonal Plates Versus Parallel Plates in Treatment of Distal Hemoural Fractures in Adults

Distal humerus fractures continue to be a elaborate fracture to treat. Orthogonal and parallel plate’s constructs are often used for fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures but optimal plate configuration remains controversial. Aim of this study was Comparison of short outcome and therapeutic results of two orthogonal plates versus parallel plates in treatment of distal humeral fractures. In a descriptive analytical study، 60 patients with distal humerus fractures were evaluated. They were divided in two matched groups according to their sex، age and type of fractures. 30 patients in each group were followed for 6 month and results were compared. Mean age of total studied patient was (47. 9± 14. 9) years. Union of fractures was similar in two methods of plating. An ulnar nerve injury in orthogonal plates were in 2 (6. 7%) cases and in parallel plate was in one case. Operation infection site and malalignment in orthogonal plate were in 2 cases but there was not observed in parallel methods. Range of motion improvement in 6 month after surgery was significant difference between two methods. Patients treated with parallel methods had better function. According to our study results، two methods of plating are similar and can provide adequate stability. But functional improvements and elbow range of motion are better in parallel plate.