title: Open reduction and bi-columnar internal fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures through a combined medial and lateral approach.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the suitability of bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach for the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures.
  
  
  METHODS
  Nineteen cases of intra-articular distal humerus fractures were treated with open reduction and bi-columnar internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach. The reduction in the articular surface and functional recovery of the affected elbows was assessed at an average follow-up of 15.8 ± 7.9 (7-43) months.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The gap in the main articular fragments was less than 1 mm in 16 cases, while a gap of more than 1 mm and less than 2 mm was identified in 2 cases and of 3.7 mm in one case. All the fractures were united. At the latest follow-up, the mean flexion-extension of the elbows was 113.4° ± 20.7°, while the pronation-supination of the forearms was 158.3° ± 8.5°, and the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Index was 93.7 ± 9.1 points, leading to 13 excellent outcomes, and 6 with good results.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus can be effectively treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a combined medial and lateral approach at the elbow.
authors: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, China.
authors: Xiaoxing
authors: X
authors: Xie
authors: Hui
authors: H
authors: Qin
authors: Longxiang
authors: L
authors: Shen
authors: Bingfang
authors: B
authors: Zeng
authors: Zhiquan
authors: Z
authors: An
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005542:Forearm / Q000503:physiopathology; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D017102:Fracture Healing; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D057072:Intra-Articular Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011403:Pronation; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013484:Supination; D055815:Young Adult; D000092464:Elbow Injuries
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