Outcomes of the Pin and Plate Technique in Complex Fractures and Nonunions of Distal Humerus

Objectives: This study investigates outcomes and complications of the pin and plate fixation technique, which was suggested for distal humerus fractures. It also reports the results of its application in nonunions for the first time. Methods: Forty-nine fracture and 17 nonunion cases who underwent surgery using the technique and were followed for at least 18 months were assessed through the range of motion (ROM), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Score (Quick-DASH), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), four-category verbal rating scale (VRS-4), and complications. Results: At the last follow-up, the mean scores of flexion, extension deficit, supination, and pronation ranges in fracture cases were 116.7, 22.9, 90.0, and 90.0 degrees, respectively. These values in nonunion cases were 112.2, 26.4, 86.7, and 85.5 degrees, respectively. The average ROM in fracture cases was 93.8, while it was 85.8 degrees in nonunion cases. The mean Quick-DASH in fracture and nonunion patients were 25.2 and 31.1, respectively. According to the MEPS, 77.5% of fracture and 64.7% of nonunion patients had excellent and good results. In fracture cases, the mean scores of VRS-4 at rest, light activity, and hard activity were 1.3, 1.8, and 2.3, respectively. These values in nonunion cases were 1.8, 2.2, and 2.5, respectively. The most common complications were device prominence and ulnar neuropathy. Conclusion: An acceptable union rate and proper elbow function can be expected by using this technique. Owing to the promising results of this study, further high-quality studies are recommended. Hereby this technique is called Persian Fixation.