Outcome of Complex Coronal Shear Fractures of the Distal Humerus (Dubberley Type 3) Managed by the Transolecranon Approach

Abstract

Introduction

Complex distal humerus coronal shear fractures are rare injuries. These fractures involve small articular fragments and are challenging to fix.

Design

Aprospective case series of 10 patients was done at a level 1 trauma centre between February 2017 and July 2021. Dubberley type 3 fractures were included in the study.

Intervention

All patients underwent ORIF using posterior approach with olecranon osteotomy by a single surgeon. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months postoperatively.

Outcome Measures

The primary outcome measures were radiographic union and functional status of the limb (DASH score and MEPI score).

Results

All patients achieved radiographic union of fracture as well as the osteotomy. The mean DASH score as measured on the final follow-up was 12.6 ± 10.2 and the mean MEPI score was 90 ± 8.2. None of the cases needed reoperation.

Conclusion

Consistently good functional outcomes can be obtained in complex coronal shear fractures by posterior approach with olecranon osteotomy. Dubberley type 3b patients should undergo additional plate fixation.