ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the efficacy of dual plating internal fixation with olecranon osteotomy approach for the emergency surgery of complex distal humeral fractures (intereondylar and supracondylar fracture).Methods Forty-seven cases of complex distal humeral fractures were treated with emergency surgery from May 2002 to May 2007.The dual plating internal fLxation was implemented with olecranon osteotomy approach in a posteubital slight arc shaped median incision.Early postoperative rehabilitation was necessary.Results The follow-up period differed from 5 to 50 months,averaged 18 months.All fractures healed in 3-6 months after surgery.The Cassebaum scoring system was used for the assessment of cubital joint function,36 cases were excellent,4 cases were good,5 cases were common,and 2 cases were bad.The excellent and good rate was 85.1%.Conclusions For complex distal humeral fractures,dual plating internal fixation emergency surgery with olecranon osteotomy approach ensures the early postoperative rehabilitation of the cubital joint and the maximum possible functional recovery.It shows the efficacy is satisfactory.