Internal fixation for coronal shear fracture of the distal end of the humerus by the anterolateral approach

Six patients with a displaced coronal shear fracture of the distal end of the humerus were treated surgically with the anterolateral approach to the elbow, in which the capitulum and trochlea could be exposed widely. All underwent open reduction and internal fixation to reduce anatomically and mobilize the joint at an early stage. The mean duration of follow-up was 40 months (range, 24-54 months). All fractures healed with an acceptable functional result. In no case did we observe collapse of the capitulum or trochlea. We recommend open reduction by the anterolateral approach, which provides good exposure of the fracture sites and allows internal fixation to be accomplished with the use of Herbert screws, resulting in good fixation and compression of the bone fragments. (J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2001;10:554-6.)