Orthogonal versus Parallel Plating for Distal Humeral Fractures
10.5397/cise.2015.18.2.105
- Author:
Jun Gyu MOON
1
;
Ji Ho LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea. moonjg@korea.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Humerus;
Humeral fractures;
Fracture fixation
- MeSH:
Elbow;
Fracture Fixation;
Humeral Fractures;
Humerus;
Orthopedics
- From:Journal of the Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society
2015;18(2):105-112
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
In orthopedic trauma surgery, treatment of intraarticular distal humerus fractures is a challenge. With development of implants and biomechanical studies, surgical strategies with recommendations including preoperative computed tomography images, proper approaches and open reduction and internal fixation with dual plates have emerged. In addition, as an effort to provide stable fixation to permit early elbow motion, different methods of internal fixation, particularly plate configuration, have evolved. Using dual plates, either oriented parallel to each other or orthogonal, stable fixation has been achieved and satisfactory clinical outcomes have been reported. With rationales and advantages/disadvantages of each plate configuration, both techniques are selected according to surgeons' preference, and, in specific cases, one could be preferred over another. The key to successful fixation by either technique is obtaining anatomical reduction with restoration of two stable columns of the distal humerus.
