Outcomes of AO/OTA C-type fractures of the distal humerus after open reduction and internal fixation with locking plate constructs in patients at least 65 years old

BACKGROUND: Modern treatment options of distal humerus fractures of active elderly patients are osteosynthesis and total elbow arthroplasty. The evidence of outcomes of ORIF after AO/OTA C-type fractures mostly predates the adoption of locking plates. We evaluated the results of open reduction and internal fixation of these fractures treated exclusively with anatomic locking plates. METHODS: A retrospective cohort of 39 patients aged 65 years or above with ORIF for AO/OTA C-type distal humerus fracture using locking plates was analysed. 23 provided follow-up data and 14 attended a follow-up visit. Primary outcome was the Oxford Elbow Score. Secondary outcomes were Mayo Elbow Performance Score, quickDASH, satisfaction, range of motion, complications and revision surgeries. RESULTS: Mean Oxford Elbow Score pain was 83 (SD 17), Oxford Elbow Score function 83 (17) and Oxford Elbow Score social-psychological 79 (20). Mean total Oxford Elbow Score was 81 (15). Among the 14 patients who attended a follow-up visit, Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 85 (17), qDASH 19 (16), active arc of motion 119 (19) degrees. Mayo Elbow Performance Score and arc of motion were worse than on the healthy side. One patient had a serious deep infection. Eleven patients had at least one revision surgery, of which 6 were implant removals and 2 subsequent total elbow arthroplasties. CONCLUSIONS: Distal AO/OTA C-type distal humerus fractures in older adults can be treated reliably and with good outcomes with ORIF using modern locking plates. The mean qDASH scores are similar to population normal values, but when compared to the healthy arm, single-arm outcomes indicated somewhat impaired function. About 1 in 4 patients had at least one revision surgery.