RESUMO
Objective To evaluate the hinged external flxator in combination with internal fixation for treatment of old type B fractures of the distal humerus.Methods Eleven cases of old type B fractures of distal humerus treated in our department were studied retrospectively.They were treated with hinged external fixators in combination with internal fixation and evaluated according to Mayo elbow performance scores.Results All the patients were followed up for 10 to 18(mean, 12.5)months.The mean union time was 4.6(range, 3.5 to 6.0)months.The final range of flexion to extension of the elbow was 19.4°±6.5° to 124.2°±11.3°.The final ranges of pronation and supination were 72.8°±5.4° and 67.6°± 7.3°.By Mayo elbow performance scores, the post-operative functional outcome of the elbow was excellent in 5 patients, good in 4, and fair in 2.Conclusion The old type B fractures of distal humerus can be effectively treated with hinged external fixators in combination with internal fixation, for early rehabilitation and restoration of the elbow function can be facilitated.