Treatment of distal humerus fractures.

The elbow is a complex joint and is vital in positioning the hand in space. We believe that open reduction internal fixation offers the best chance for return to function following intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus. We advocate the following principles for the effective treatment of these injuries: identification and protection of the ulnar nerve followed by transposition, broad exposure of the fracture utilizing an olecranon osteotomy, anatomic restoration of the articular surface with preservation of all osteochondral fragments, rigid fixation of both columns using pre-contoured plates and screws, and the institution of early range of motion post-operatively.