Surgical treatment of transarticular shear fractures of the distal humerus in adults through Kaplan approach / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the surgical treatment and outcome of distal humeral shear fractures in adults through Kaplan approach.Methods Nine patients with closed shear fracture of the distal humerus were surgically treated through Kaplan approach from September 2005 to September 2009.The lateral collateral ligament was released only in 1 case.All the fractures were classified into type 1A (3 cases),type 1B (1 case),type 2A (1 case),type 3A (1 case) and type 3B (3 cases) according to Dubberley classification.Under the direct vision,cannulated screw was used after anatomic reduction was confirmed by fluoroscopy.Results All fractures were reduced anatomically without any neural or vascular injury.Only 1 case of grade 1 heterotopic ossification was found 12-24 months postoperatively.There were excellent in 4 cases,and good in 5 cases.The average Broberg-Morrey score was 94.2.The average arc of flexion-extension was 116°.As to the 4 cases with posterior comminution,the averaged score and the arc of flexion-extension was 92.8 and 104°,respectively.Conclusion Through Kaplan approach,the reduction and internal fixation of distal humeral shear fractures can be manipulated successfully with lateral collateral ligament intact,and the short-term outcome is satisfactory.Dubberley classification which focused on the severity and prognosis is helpful to make a surgical plan.