• Xiaoxing Xie, Hui Qin, Longxiang Shen, Bingfang Zeng, and Zhiquan An.
• Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, China.
• Eur J Orthop Surg Tr. 2014 Oct 1; 24 (7): 1115-22.

PurposeThe 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.MethodsNineteen 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.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionsIntra-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.

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