Double Tension Band Osteosynthesis in Inter-Condylar Humeral Fractures

Intercondylar humerus fractures are uncommon in orthopaedic practice. The treatment for the same has been described in the literature and include paragonal and orthogonal fixation by using plates. Tension band wiring as a treatment for the same is sparsely described in the literature.

To evaluate the effectiveness of "Double Tension Band wiring" method for the treatment of intercondylar fractures of humerus and compare the results with studies involving treatment with locked plates.

Twenty patients, all presenting with fresh fractures of the distal humerus, treated with double tension band wiring were retrospectively evaluated over a period of three years. Fractures were classified according to Jupiter classification of distal humeral fractures. There were 5 high T fractures, 13 low T fractures and 2 Y fractures. According to AO classification, all were C1 fractures. Average age of the patients was 56.20 years (32-70 years). There were 13 males and 07 females.

Out of 20 cases treated with this method, rigid fixation and union was achieved in all of them. The average tourniquet time was 69 minutes with minimum of 50 minutes and maximum of 120 minutes. Radiological union was achieved at an average of 10.8 weeks (8-14weeks). Average range of motion was 104.5 degrees with maximum range of motion 120 degrees (10-130) and minimum of 70 degrees (30-100). Excellent or good results were obtained in 80% of the patients in our study.

Double tension band is a reliable, less demanding and cost effective method of fixation of intercondylar fractures of humerus.