Distal Humerus Open Reduction Internal Fixation

Matthew Wells, MD

Content Contributor

Evolution of Distal Humerus Open Reduction Internal Fixation

There have been considerable advances in the treatment of distal humerus fractures that allow for better outcomes. The widespread use of computed tomography helps surgeons preoperatively plan the method of fixation best suited for each patient. Modern fixation techniques are designed to improve mechanical stability of the construct through pre-contoured periarticular plates and the use of interlocking screws, or screws that lock into the plates.

These designs allow for better fixation and improved stability in fractures that are often comminuted or have pre-injury poor bone quality. These improvements in fixation have resulted in a decreased rate of hardware failure and nonunion, however the range of motion of the elbow is not reliably restored in every patient. The goal of surgery in distal humerus fractures is to achieve a stable fixation that allows for early unprotected range of motion to prevent the commonly encountered elbow stiffness.

Technology Spotlight

Stryker VariAx 2 Elbow

Given the technical difficulty of fixing elbow fractures and the resultant poor bone quality of these fractures, Stryker released their VariAx 2® elbow locking plate system. Their distal humerus titanium alloy plates are contoured to fit the native anatomy of the elbow. Surgeons can choose between 180-degree or 90-degree plating, which allows for increased options that may be needed depending on fracture morphology. The equipment sets also have plating equipment for the often-concomitant olecranon fractures in the elbow.