Distal Humerus Fracture: How to Choose the Approach, Implant, Fixation and Rehabilitation
10.12671/jkfs.2019.32.1.72
- Author:
Min Ho LEE
1
;
Young Ho LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea. orthoyhl@snu.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Elbow joint;
Ulnar nerve;
Heterotopic ossification
- MeSH:
Bone Transplantation;
Elbow Joint;
Humerus;
Intra-Articular Fractures;
Joints;
Ossification, Heterotopic;
Osteoporosis;
Postoperative Complications;
Rehabilitation;
Ulnar Nerve;
Ulnar Nerve Compression Syndromes
- From:Journal of the Korean Fracture Society
2019;32(1):72-81
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Distal humerus fractures require stable fixation and early joint motion, similar to other intra-articular fractures, but are difficult to treat adequately because of the anatomical complexity, severe comminution, and accompanying osteoporosis. In most cases, surgical treatment is performed using two supporting plates. Plate fixation can be divided into right angle plate fixation and parallel plate fixation. In addition, depending on the type of fracture, surgical procedures can be performed differently, and autologous bone grafting can be required in the case of severe bone loss. The elbow joint is vulnerable to stiffness, so it is important to start joint movement early after surgery. Postoperative complications, such as nonunion, ulnar nerve compression, and heterotopic ossification, can occur. Therefore, accurate and rigid fixation and meticulous manipulation of soft tissues are required during surgery.
