Distal humerus fractures: epidemiology and surgical management trends in hospitalized patients in Qatar

Distal humerus fractures, while relatively rare, can lead to significant complications and disability. Understanding the epidemiology, treatment, and complications of these fractures is crucial for improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of distal humerus fractures in Qatar, highlighting the mechanisms of injury, fracture types, and treatment outcomes.

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on patients aged 18 years and above who sustained distal humerus fractures within Qatar's public health-care system from January 2017 to December 2018. Data were collected from electronic medical records across 5 public hospitals, including demographics, mechanisms of injury, fracture classification, treatment modalities, and complications. The incidence rates were calculated using population data from the Qatar Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics.

Out of 100 patients with 101 distal humerus fractures, the overall incidence was 2.15 per 100,000 persons per year, predominantly affecting young males (77%). The primary mechanisms of injury were low-energy falls (34%) and motor vehicle accidents (31%). The most common fracture patterns were the medial epicondyle alone (A1.2) (11.9%) and complete simple articular fracture types C1.1 (9.9%) and C2.1 (9.9%). Multiple injuries were present in 21.8% of patients. Surgical treatment was the mainstay, with orthogonal plating being the most common fixation method. Elbow stiffness was more common complication, occurring in 35% of cases.

The incidence of distal humerus fractures in Qatar is lower than reported in developed countries, likely due to the country's demographic profile. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and improve functional outcomes.