OBJECTIVETo summarize clinical result of the modified posterior approach for the treatment of the mid and distal segment humeral fractures.

METHODSBetween January 2006 and December 2010, 26 patients with the mid and distal segment humeral fractures were treated with the open reduction and plate fixation by the modified posterior approach including 17 males and 9 females with an average of (37.1±1.5) years old ranging from 24 to 50 years old. The time from humeral fractures to operation were from 8 hours to 6 days with an average of (3.3±0.6) d. The elbow function were assessed by Morrey-Bryan.

RESULTSThere was no procedure related complications occurred. No neurologic injury and wound infection after operation occurred. All patients were followed up from 22 to 48 months with an average of (30.1±1.6) months. The humeral fractures were confirmed healing. The clinical results of Morrey and Bryan were excellent in 19 cases (94.6±1.8), good in 7 cases (86.5±1.2).

CONCLUSIONSThe modified posterior approach avoided injury of triceps muscle and improved postoperative triceps function. The technique may be particularly useful in the treatment of the mid and distal segment humeral fractures.