[Distal humerus fracture-extensile approaches]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• Dislocated, intra-articular distal humerus fractures often require open reduction and internal fixation.
• Various surgical approaches exist, each with specific advantages and disadvantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe diverse dorsal surgical approaches to the distal humerus.
• To discuss preoperative planning, operative procedures, and rehabilitation protocols.
• To present clinical outcomes of surgically treated distal humerus fractures.

Main Methods:

• Review of dorsal surgical approaches to the distal humerus, including those with and without olecranon osteotomy.
• Discussion of preoperative planning and surgical techniques.
• Analysis of patient outcomes over a 6-year period.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of olecranon osteotomy and alternative dorsal approaches.
• Emphasis on the importance of early, non-weight-bearing functional rehabilitation.
• Presentation of clinical results from the past six years.

Conclusions:

• Dorsal approaches offer viable options for treating distal humerus fractures.
• Careful preoperative planning and appropriate surgical technique are crucial.
• Early functional rehabilitation is key to achieving optimal outcomes in distal humerus fracture treatment.