Related Experiment Videos
Modified lateral approach to the distal humerus for internal fixation
1Center for Total Joint Replacement, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY 10021, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Internal fixation of distal humeral shaft fractures is challenging. A modified lateral approach with posterior plating successfully treated eight fractures, with all patients achieving union and no complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
Background:
- Fractures of the distal humeral shaft present significant surgical challenges for internal fixation.
- Traditional approaches may lead to complications or suboptimal outcomes in this specific fracture location.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified lateral approach for internal fixation of distal humeral shaft fractures.
- To assess the role of posterior plating of the lateral column in managing these injuries.
Main Methods:
- A modified lateral surgical approach was employed.
- Posterior plating of the lateral column was performed in all cases.
- Eight patients with eight distal humeral shaft fractures (seven acute, one nonunion) were included.
Main Results:
- All eight fractures achieved bony union.
- No intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported in the series.
- The modified lateral approach facilitated successful internal fixation.
Conclusions:
- The modified lateral approach is a viable and effective surgical option for managing displaced distal humeral shaft fractures.
- Posterior plating via this approach offers a safe and successful method for achieving union in these complex injuries.