Operative treatment of type C intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus: Results after a mean follow-up of 2 years in a series of 18 patients

We reviewed the results of internal fixation in a series of 18 patients (mean age, 44.4 years; SD, 19.1 years; range, 16-81 years) with type C intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus after a mean follow-up of 24.7 months (range, 10-41 months; SD, 9.3 months). An excellent or good result was observed in 10 patients (56%), according to the rating system of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association. All patients younger than 40 years (n = 8) had an excellent or good result, whereas those rates were found in only 2 of 10 patients older than 50 years. Low range of elbow motion (extension-flexion) and, consequently, inferior postoperative score were also correlated to male sex, the triceps-splitting approach, and immobilization exceeding 3 weeks. When stability of the humeral columns is achieved and the articular platform is reconstructed, satisfactory results can be obtained, even in comminuted supracondylar fractures. However, age over 50 years, poor bone quality, and open fracture are correlated with increased risk for an inferior postoperative result. Early mobilization, when possible, and the use of an olecranon osteotomy are recommended. (J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2002;11:48-52.)