What is Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate？

The GPC distal humeral locking plate with lateral support is indicated for fixing lateral column in intercondylar and supracondylar fractures of humerus and as a single plate in distal humerus fractures. It is available in stainless steel and titanium.It is available in 4 holes to 12 holes(2 holes increment).

Indications:

• Intercondylar fracture distal humerus

• Supracondylar fracture distal humerus

• Osteotomy around distal humerus

• Fracture non- union distal humerus

Specifications

• Anatomically shaped- right or left

• The plates are pre-shaped to match the anatomy of the distal humerus with a limited contact low profile design

• Tapered tip for submuscular insertion with minimal soft tissue stripping

• Uniform stiffness of all segments, prolonging fatigue life of the implant

• Smaller area of post-fixation avascularity

• The combination of conventional and locking screws offers optimum fixation regardless of bone density

• Screw-heads are recessed into the plate holes for minimum screw prominence

• Screw trajectory designed for optimal fixation of comminuted fractures

• Bending of the distal part is recommended to adjust the optimal position of plate for placement of long screws through the articular block

• Bending to be done in the region of combination holes as it frequently alters the thread pattern of locking hole

• Available in both Titanium & Stainless steel

specifications

Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate: A Comprehensive Guide for Orthopedic Surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons encounter a range of challenging fractures in the course of their practice, including those of the distal humerus. Distal humeral fractures often result from high-impact trauma and can be challenging to manage. A distal lateral humeral locking plate is a relatively new development in the field of orthopedic surgery and has emerged as an effective treatment option for complex distal humeral fractures. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on the distal lateral humeral locking plate, its design, indications, surgical technique, complications, and outcomes.

Anatomy of the Distal Humerus

Before discussing the distal lateral humeral locking plate, it is essential to understand the anatomy of the distal humerus. The distal humerus is the bony protrusion at the lower end of the humerus, the bone in the upper arm. It consists of two condyles: the medial condyle and the lateral condyle, separated by a groove called the trochlea. The distal humerus articulates with the radius and ulna bones in the forearm to form the elbow joint. The distal humerus is critical for elbow function, and any fracture in this region can significantly affect the patient's mobility.

Indications for Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate

The distal lateral humeral locking plate is primarily indicated for distal humeral fractures that are challenging to manage using conventional methods such as casts, splints, or percutaneous pinning. These fractures are usually complex, involving displacement, comminution, or intra-articular involvement. The distal lateral humeral locking plate provides rigid fixation and stability to the fracture site, allowing early mobilization and faster recovery.

Design of the Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate

The distal lateral humeral locking plate is a pre-contoured, anatomically designed plate that is placed on the lateral aspect of the distal humerus. The plate has multiple screw holes and locking mechanisms that allow for secure fixation to the bone. The plate is made of titanium or stainless steel and is available in various sizes to accommodate different patient anatomies.

Surgical Technique for Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate

The surgical technique for distal lateral humeral locking plate involves an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) approach. The patient is placed under general anesthesia, and an incision is made on the lateral aspect of the elbow to expose the fracture site. The fracture is reduced, and the distal lateral humeral locking plate is placed on the lateral aspect of the distal humerus. The plate is secured to the bone using locking screws, and the incision is closed. Post-operative care involves immobilization, physical therapy, and close follow-up.

Complications of Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential complications associated with the distal lateral humeral locking plate. These include infection, implant failure, nerve injury, and loss of reduction. The risk of complications can be minimized by careful patient selection, appropriate surgical technique, and close post-operative follow-up.

Outcomes of Distal Lateral Humeral Locking Plate

The outcomes of distal lateral humeral locking plate have been promising, with most studies reporting high rates of fracture union, excellent functional outcomes, and low rates of complications. However, the long-term outcomes of this procedure are still being evaluated, and further research is needed to determine its efficacy in the long term.

Conclusion

Distal humeral fractures are challenging to manage, and the distal lateral humeral locking plate has emerged as an effective treatment option for complex fractures. The plate is pre-contoured and anatomically designed, providing rigid fixation and stability to the fracture site. The surgical technique involves an open reduction and internal fixation approach, and post-operative care involves immobilization, physical therapy, and close follow-up. Although there are potential complications associated with the procedure, the outcomes have been promising, with high rates of fracture union, excellent functional outcomes, and low rates of complications. Orthopedic surgeons should consider the distal lateral humeral locking plate as a treatment option for challenging distal humeral fractures.

FAQs

1. What is a distal humeral fracture?

A distal humeral fracture is a break in the bone at the lower end of the humerus, usually resulting from high-impact trauma.

1. What is a distal lateral humeral locking plate?

A distal lateral humeral locking plate is a pre-contoured, anatomically designed plate that is placed on the lateral aspect of the distal humerus to provide rigid fixation and stability to the fracture site.

1. What are the indications for distal lateral humeral locking plate?

The distal lateral humeral locking plate is primarily indicated for distal humeral fractures that are challenging to manage using conventional methods such as casts, splints, or percutaneous pinning.

1. What are the potential complications associated with the distal lateral humeral locking plate?

The potential complications associated with the distal lateral humeral locking plate include infection, implant failure, nerve injury, and loss of reduction.

1. What are the outcomes of distal lateral humeral locking plate?

The outcomes of distal lateral humeral locking plate have been promising, with high rates of fracture union, excellent functional outcomes, and low rates of complications. However, the long-term outcomes of this procedure are still being evaluated, and further research is needed to determine its efficacy in the long term.