Internal fixation of capitellar fractures using Herbert screws: a report of four cases

Four patients with displaced fractures of the capitellum (capitulum humeri) were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using Herbert screws. The mean follow-up was 16 months (range from 12 to 21 months). All fractures united without evidence of avascular necrosis. Postoperatively, the range of motion was excellent, except in one patient who had a comminuted open fracture and other injuries. Three cadaveric dissections demonstrated that the Herbert screw could be inserted without detaching the lateral collateral ligament. The Herbert screw is useful in treating displaced capitellar fractures since the jig maintains the reduction and the screw, compressing the fracture site, is buried beneath the articular cartilage and does not have to be removed.