title: Management of the smashed distal humerus.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to present a principle-based approach to treating the smashed distal humerus. These injuries are challenging to even the most experienced surgeons. The four goals, in order of priority, are soft tissue healing without infection, restoration of diaphyseal bone stock, union between the distal fragments and the shaft, and a stable and mobile articulation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical Sciences Building 3-69, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. odriscoll.shawn@mayo.edu
authors.forename: Shawn W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: O'Driscoll
authors.forename: Joaquin
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sanchez-Sotelo
authors.forename: Michael E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Torchia
mesh_terms: D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D003646:Debridement; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000503:physiopathology; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D014945:Wound Healing