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ڈسٹل ہومیرس فریکچر

Updated Sep 2026

اس صفحے کا ترجمہ مشین سے کیا گیا ہے اور ابھی تک کسی ڈاکٹر نے اس کی جانچ نہیں کی۔ انگریزی نسخہ ہی مستند ہے۔

آپ کیا محسوس کر رہے ہیں

ڈسٹل ہومیرس فریکچر بازو کی ہڈی کے نچلے حصے میں ٹوٹنا ہے، جو کہ کہ کہنی کے بالکل اوپر ہے۔ یہ عام طور پر بازو پر گرنے، براہ راست دھچکا، یا ایک کھڑی کہنی کے ذریعے اچانک بھاری بوجھ کی وجہ سے ہوتا ہے. بہت سے لوگ زخمی ہونے کے لمحے میں ایک جھپکی محسوس کرنے یا سننے کا بیان کرتے ہیں۔

درد عام طور پر فوری اور مضبوط ہے. آپ کا کوہنی جلدی پھول سکتا ہے، اور اکثر اگلے ایک یا دو دن میں زخم ظاہر ہوتا ہے۔ اگر ٹوٹے ہوئے ٹکڑے ٹکڑے منتقل ہو گئے ہیں تو جوڑ شکل سے باہر نظر آسکتا ہے۔ [ صفحہ ۲۱ پر تصویر] کہنی غیر مستحکم محسوس ہوتی ہے، اور اسے استعمال کرنے کی کوشش درد کو بڑھاتی ہے۔

پہلے دنوں اور ہفتوں میں، درد اکثر آرام اور رات میں ہوتا ہے، اور یہ کہنی کو حرکت دینے کی کسی بھی کوشش کے ساتھ تیز ہوتا ہے۔ جب شفا یابی شروع ہوتی ہے تو یہ آہستہ آہستہ ختم ہوجاتی ہے، اگرچہ کہنی کچھ وقت کے لئے سخت اور نرم رہ سکتی ہے۔ کہنی ایک پیچیدہ جوڑ ہے، اور یہاں ٹوٹنے کا علاج مشکل ہوسکتا ہے، خاص طور پر جب ہڈی پتلی ہو یا کئی ٹکڑوں میں ٹوٹ جائے۔ کچھ لوگوں کو، خاص طور پر 65 سال سے زائد عمر کے لوگوں کو، بحالی کے دوران مسائل کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا ہے، لہذا آپ کی ٹیم اس بات پر قریبی نظر رکھے گی کہ بازو کس طرح ترقی کر رہا ہے.

آپ کا سرجن آپ کے ساتھ اس علاج کے بارے میں بات کرے گا جو آپ کے فریکچر اور آپ کی صحت کے مطابق ہو۔ ٹوٹے ہوئے ٹکڑوں کو دوبارہ سیدھا کرنے اور ان کو تھامنے کے لیے عام طور پر سرجری کی جاتی ہے۔ اسے اوپن ریڈکشن اور انٹرنل فکسشن کہا جاتا ہے۔ جس کا مطلب ہے کہ ٹکڑوں کو اپنی جگہ پر واپس رکھنا اور پلیٹوں اور سکرو کے ذریعے ان کو ٹھیک کرنا۔ کچھ بوڑھے لوگوں کے لئے، خاص طور پر جہاں ٹوٹنے کو دوبارہ تعمیر نہیں کیا جاسکتا ہے، اس کے بجائے ایک کل کہنی مشترکہ متبادل پر غور کیا جا سکتا ہے. دوسروں کے لئے، خاص طور پر جو طبی طور پر بیمار ہیں یا بازو پر کم مطالبات ہیں، سرجری کے بغیر علاج بھی اچھی طرح سے کام کر سکتا ہے.

اصل میں کیا ہو رہا ہے

آپ کے بازو کی ہڈی کا نچلا حصہ، ہومیرس، کہنی کے بالکل اوپر پھیلا ہوا ہے۔ [ صفحہ ۲۲ پر تصویر] ایک آپ کے کوہنی کو جھکنے اور سیدھا کرنے دیتا ہے. دوسرے سے آپ کا ماتھا گھومتا ہے تاکہ آپ اپنی ہتھیلی کو اوپر اور نیچے کر سکیں۔

یہاں ٹوٹنا ایک لکڑی کی شاخ کے کانٹے دار سرے کو توڑنے کے مترادف ہے جہاں یہ ٹرنک سے جڑتا ہے۔ مفصلات کی سطحیں نرم، پھسلنے والی غضروف کی پرت سے ڈھکی ہوئی ہیں، اور ہڈی کے ٹکڑے مضبوط پٹے کے ذریعے ایک ساتھ رکھے ہوئے ہیں جنہیں رباط کہا جاتا ہے۔ جب ہڈی ٹوٹ جاتی ہے، تو یہ سطحیں الگ ہو سکتی ہیں اور منتقل ہو سکتی ہیں، اس لیے جوڑ اب ہموار نہیں چلتا۔ [ صفحہ ۲۲ پر تصویر]

کوہنی میں بھی تنگ نالے اور خالی جگہیں ہیں جن سے چلنے والے حصے گزرتے ہیں۔ اگر کوئی ٹوٹا ہوا ٹکڑا ان جگہوں میں سے کسی ایک میں منتقل ہو جائے، یا اگر شفا بخش ہڈی یا داغ والے ٹشو انہیں بھر دیں تو، کہنی حرکت سے محروم ہو سکتی ہے۔ اضافی ہڈی کبھی کبھی چوٹ لگنے والی کہنی کے ارد گرد بنتی ہے کیونکہ یہ شفا دیتا ہے، اور یہ مزید موڑنے اور سیدھا کرنے کو محدود کر سکتا ہے.

ہڈیوں کو دوبارہ ایک ساتھ باندھ کر شفا ملتی ہے، اور ہفتوں سے لے کر مہینوں تک ٹوٹنے کے دوران نئی ہڈی بنتی ہے۔ [ صفحہ ۲۷ پر تصویر] اگر ٹکڑے ٹکڑے الگ الگ ہو گئے ہیں، یا مشترکہ سطح کئی ٹکڑوں میں ٹوٹ گئی ہے، تو ان کے اپنے طور پر صف بندی کرنے کا امکان نہیں ہے. سرجری میں ٹکڑے ٹکڑے کر کے ان کی جگہ پر رکھ دیا جاتا ہے اور انہیں پلیٹیں اور سکرو کے ذریعے تھام لیا جاتا ہے جبکہ وہ بنائی کرتے ہیں۔ جب مشترکہ سطح کو دوبارہ تعمیر کرنے کے لئے بہت سارے چھوٹے ٹکڑوں میں توڑ دیا جاتا ہے تو ، کہنی کے مشترکہ کو تبدیل کرنا بہتر آپشن ہوسکتا ہے۔

آپ کا سرجن آپ کے بازو کا معائنہ کرے گا اور اسکین کرے گا کہ کتنے ٹکڑے ہیں، آیا وہ منتقل ہوگئے ہیں، اور آیا مشترکہ سطح متاثر ہوئی ہے۔ یہ تصویر فیصلہ کرتی ہے کہ آپ کے لئے کون سا علاج معقول ہے۔

ہم اس کے بارے میں کیا کر سکتے ہیں

ڈاکٹر کیران ہیرپارا، میٹر پرائیویٹ ہسپتال راک ہیمپٹن میں اوپری ٹانگوں کے سرجن، آپ کی مخصوص چوٹ کے مطابق علاج کرتے ہیں۔ مریضوں کو عام طور پر ان کے جی پی کے ذریعہ ہمارے کلینک کا حوالہ دیا جاتا ہے۔ اگر کسی فزیوتھیراپسٹ نے آپ کو ہمارے پاس آنے کی تجویز دی ہے تو ، آپ کو میڈیکیئر چھوٹ کے اہل ہونے کے ل your اپنے جی پی سے ریفرل کی ضرورت ہوگی۔ کلینک میں ہم آپ کے بازو کا معائنہ کرتے ہیں، آپ کے ایکس رے کا جائزہ لیتے ہیں اور جہاں ٹوٹنا پیچیدہ ہوتا ہے، وہاں نمونہ واضح طور پر دیکھنے کے لیے سی ٹی اسکین کا بندوبست کرتے ہیں۔ پھر ہم آپ کے ساتھ اختیارات کے ذریعے بات چیت.

کچھ ٹوٹ پھوٹ کے لئے، سرجری کے بغیر علاج اچھا کام کرتا ہے. یہ سوٹ ٹوٹ جاتا ہے جہاں ٹکڑے ابھی تک منتقل نہیں ہوئے ہیں اور کہنی اب بھی مستحکم ہے، اور یہ بوڑھے لوگوں کے لئے موزوں ہوسکتا ہے جن کی صحت یا ہڈی کی حالت آپریشن کو خراب بناتی ہے۔ اس میں ہڈیوں کے بنے رہنے کے دوران بازو کو جمے رکھنے کے لیے ایک پٹی، سپلنٹ یا گلاس شامل ہوتا ہے، اور اس کے ساتھ ساتھ ایکس رے کی جانچ پڑتال بھی کی جاتی ہے تاکہ اس بات کی تصدیق کی جا سکے کہ کچھ بھی نہیں بدلا ہے۔ فزیوتھراپی کے ساتھ مرحلے میں تحریک کو واپس لایا جاتا ہے ایک بار شفا یابی کی اجازت دیتا ہے. 65 سال سے زیادہ عمر کے لوگوں کے لئے، یہ راستہ شدید سختی یا ڈھیلے، غیر مستحکم کہنی کے بغیر مستقل آزادی کی اجازت دے سکتا ہے.

شروع سے ہی سرجری کی سفارش کی جاتی ہے جب ٹوٹنا جوڑ میں جاتا ہے ، ٹکڑے ٹکڑے الگ ہوچکے ہیں ، یا کہنی خود سے مستحکم نہیں ہوگی۔ جب آپ کو دوبارہ حقیقی بوجھ اٹھانے کے لئے بازو کی ضرورت ہو تو یہ عام انتخاب بھی ہے۔ مقصد یہ ہے کہ ٹکڑوں کو ان کی معمول کی پوزیشن میں واپس لایا جائے اور انہیں پلیٹوں اور پیچوں سے تھام لیا جائے تاکہ ہڈی صحیح شکل میں بنائی جا سکے اور کہنی جلدی سے حرکت شروع کر سکے۔ جب مشترکہ سطح کو دوبارہ تعمیر کرنے کے لئے بہت سارے چھوٹے ٹکڑوں میں توڑ دیا جاتا ہے تو ، کہنی کے مشترکہ کا حصہ یا اس کی جگہ لے لینا بہتر آپشن ہوسکتا ہے ، خاص طور پر پتلی ہڈی والے بوڑھے لوگوں کے لئے۔ مرمت اور متبادل کے درمیان انتخاب ایک حقیقی مشترکہ فیصلہ ہے، اور ہم اس کے ذریعے بات کریں گے کہ ہر راستہ آپ کے بازو اور آپ کی زندگی کے لئے کیا مطلب ہے.

آپ جو بھی راستہ اختیار کریں گے، ابتدائی ہفتوں میں آپ کی ترجیحات ایک جیسی ہوں گی۔ درد کا انتظام کیا جاتا ہے تاکہ آپ آرام اور نیند کر سکیں۔ بازو کی حفاظت ہوتی ہے جبکہ ہڈی شفا پاتی ہے، اس منصوبے کے مطابق جو ہم آپ کو دیتے ہیں کہ یہ محفوظ طریقے سے کیا کر سکتا ہے۔ فزیوتھیراپی صحیح مرحلے میں شروع ہوتی ہے، سرجری کے بعد جلد اور ایک بار شفا یابی کے بغیر، موڑنے، سیدھا کرنے اور پیشانی کی گردش کو دوبارہ تعمیر کرنے کی اجازت دیتا ہے. ہم آپ کو راستے میں دیکھیں گے کس طرح بازو کے ساتھ ساتھ آ رہا ہے چیک کرنے کے لئے.

کیا توقع کریں

شفا یابی میں ہفتوں سے لے کر مہینوں تک کا وقت لگتا ہے۔ ٹوٹنے کے پار نئی ہڈی بنتی ہے اور آہستہ آہستہ ٹکڑوں کو ایک ساتھ باندھتی ہے، اور جب یہ ہوتا ہے تو کہنی آسانی سے سخت ہوجاتی ہے، لہذا فزیوتھراپی کے ساتھ مرحلے میں نقل و حرکت کی تعمیر نو کی جاتی ہے جب شفا یابی کی اجازت ہوتی ہے۔ زیادہ تر لوگوں کو لگتا ہے کہ ابتدائی شدید درد پہلے ہفتوں میں ختم ہوجاتا ہے ، حالانکہ کہنی کچھ عرصے تک نرم اور سخت رہ سکتی ہے۔

اگر آپ کے فریکچر کا علاج سرجری کے بغیر کیا جاتا ہے، تو ہڈی کے پٹھے ہونے کے دوران بازو کو ٹھہرایا جاتا ہے۔ 65 سال سے زیادہ عمر کے لوگوں کے لئے، یہ راستہ مستقل آزادی کی اجازت دے سکتا ہے، شدید سختی یا ڈھیلی، غیر مستحکم کہنی کے بغیر. اگر آپ کو سرجری کرنی ہے تو پلیٹیں اور سکرو ٹکڑوں کو ان کی جگہ پر رکھتے ہیں جبکہ وہ شفا پاتے ہیں، اور تحریک جلد شروع ہوتی ہے۔ طویل عرصے میں، کچھ لوگوں کو جو اپنی کہنی کی مرمت کروا چکے ہیں، جوڑوں میں ہلکی سے اعتدال پسند لباس اور آنسو آرتھرائٹس کی ترقی ہوتی ہے، جو کئی سال بعد ایکس رے پر ظاہر ہوسکتی ہے.

بحالی ہر شخص کے لئے مختلف نظر آتا ہے. روزمرہ کے کام جیسے کپڑے پہننا، کھانا پکانا اور اٹھانا عام طور پر مراحل میں واپس آتے ہیں کیونکہ درد ختم ہوجاتا ہے اور تحریک واپس آتی ہے. جب آپ کام یا کھیل میں واپس جا سکتے ہیں اس کا انحصار آپ کے کام ، آپ کے فریکچر اور آپ کے شفا یابی کی پیشرفت پر ہوتا ہے ، اور ہم آپ کے ساتھ اس کے بارے میں آپ کی جائزہ ملاقاتوں میں بات کریں گے۔

مسائل پیدا ہو سکتے ہیں تقریباً 65 سال سے زائد عمر کے تین میں سے ایک شخص کو اس فریکچر کے ساتھ بحالی کے دوران پیچیدگی کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا ہے۔ ایک امکان ulnar اعصاب میں جلن یا تبدیل احساس ہے، اعصاب کہ کوہنی کے پیچھے سے گزرتا ہے اور چھوٹی اور انگوٹھے میں tingling کی وجہ سے کر سکتے ہیں؛ یہ سرجری کے بعد جلد ہی ہو سکتا ہے یا بعد میں ظاہر. اضافی ہڈی کبھی کبھی شفا دینے والی کہنی کے ارد گرد بنتی ہے ، جو اس حد تک محدود ہوسکتی ہے کہ یہ کس حد تک جھکتا ہے اور سیدھا ہوتا ہے۔ مرمت شدہ ٹکڑے ٹکڑے بھی منتقل ہوسکتے ہیں یا خاص طور پر اگر ہڈی پتلی ہے، اور تمباکو نوشی اس کا امکان زیادہ کرتی ہے. جب جوڑ کی مرمت کے بجائے اسے تبدیل کیا جاتا ہے تو ، نیا جوڑ عام طور پر طویل مدتی میں اچھی طرح سے کام کرتا ہے ، حالانکہ کچھ لوگوں کو ٹریک کے نیچے مزید سرجری کی ضرورت ہوتی ہے۔ آپ کی ٹیم آپ کے چیک اپ کے دوران ان مسائل کی نگرانی کرے گی اور جو کچھ بھی سامنے آئے گا اس کے بارے میں آپ سے بات کرے گی۔

کسی سے کب ملنا ہے

اگر آپ کے بازو کی شکل خراب نظر آتی ہے، اگر کہنی پر کھلے زخم ہیں، اگر آپ کی انگلیوں میں بے حسی یا جھنجھٹ محسوس ہوتی ہے، یا اگر آپ بازو کو بالکل استعمال نہیں کر سکتے ہیں تو فوری طور پر طبی امداد حاصل کریں۔ ان علامات کو فوری طور پر تشخیص کی ضرورت ہے.

اگر درد ختم نہیں ہو رہا ہے، یا اگر سوجن، تحریک یا روزانہ کی تقریب میں ہفتے میں ہفتے میں بہتر نہیں ہو رہی ہے کیونکہ ہڈی شفا دیتا ہے، اپنے ڈاکٹر سے ملیں یا ایک ماہر جائزہ لینے کے لئے پوچھیں. بحالی شاذ و نادر ہی ایک سیدھی لائن میں چلتی ہے، لیکن ہر ہفتے کچھ تبدیلی لانا چاہئے. اگر کچھ بھی نہیں ہل رہا ہے، تو یہ انتظار کرنے کے بجائے بازو کی جانچ پڑتال کرنے کے قابل ہے.

مزید گہرائی میں

یہ سیکشن آپ کے اپنے علاج کے فیصلوں کے لئے ضرورت سے زیادہ جاتا ہے. ایک ڈسٹل ہومیرس فریکچر اضافی پڑھنے کے قابل ہے کیونکہ یہ ایک عجیب موڑ پر بیٹھتا ہے: یہ اوپری عضو میں زیادہ پیچیدگی کا شکار فریکچر میں سے ایک ہے ، معیاری جراحی کی نمائش میں جان بوجھ کر ایک دوسری ہڈی کو توڑنا شامل ہے ، اور بوڑھے مریضوں میں آپریشن کرنے کا معاملہ بالکل بھی کم طے شدہ ہے جتنا آپ فرض کرسکتے ہیں۔

پیچیدگی کی شرح شہرت سے زیادہ ہے

کھلی تخفیف اور اندرونی تثبیت کے ذریعہ علاج شدہ انٹرا آرٹیکولر ڈسٹل ہیمرال فریکچر کا سب سے بڑا مجموعی تجزیہ جمع کیا گیا 2,362 اور اس کا نتیجہ واضح تھا: پیچیدگیاں اور دوبارہ آپریشن پہلے سمجھا جاتا ہے کے مقابلے میں زیادہ کثرت سے [1].

یہ ایک مفید اصلاح ہے. یہ فریکچر عام طور پر مشکل لیکن حل کے طور پر پیش کیے جاتے ہیں، اور ایکس رے پر تکنیکی نتیجہ اکثر بہترین ہوتا ہے۔ ایک اچھی ریڈیو گراف اور ایک اچھی کہنی کے درمیان کا فرق یہاں زیادہ وسیع ہے کہ تقریبا کسی بھی دوسری جگہ اس عضو میں، اور ادب اس کی اطلاع نہیں دے رہا تھا.

نمائش اس کی اپنی لاگت ہے

مشترکہ سطح کو صحیح طریقے سے دیکھنے کے لئے ، معمول کا نقطہ نظر اس کے پار کاٹ کر ، ایک olecranon osteotomy ، اور آخر میں اس کی مرمت کرکے olecranon کو الگ کرتا ہے۔ یہ رسائی کے ایک حقیقی مسئلے کا ایک خوبصورت حل ہے، اور یہ مفت نہیں ہے.

پولنگ 1,700 osteotomies، 447 پیچیدگیوں کی اطلاع دی گئی ہے. زخم انفیکشن میں واقع ہوا 4.2% اور osteotomy کے ساتھ مسائل 3.7% [2]- جی ہاں . لہذا اس نمائش کو استعمال کرنے کا فیصلہ ایک چھوٹا لیکن یقینی موقع قبول کرنے کا فیصلہ ہے ایک دوسرے مسئلے کا ایک سائٹ پر جو آپریشن سے پہلے برقرار تھا. مصنفین کا فریمنگ صحیح ہے: خطرے کو osteotomy انجام دینے کے فیصلے کا حصہ ہونا چاہئے، اس کے لئے ایک فوٹ نوٹ نہیں.

اس کے قابل ہونے کے لئے، پچھلے نمائشوں کے درمیان انتخاب ایک کا استعمال کرنے کے فیصلے سے کم اہم لگتا ہے. کا ایک میٹا تجزیہ 1,258 مکمل انٹرا آرٹیکلولر (اے او / او ٹی اے ٹائپ سی) فریکچر والے مریضوں نے ٹرائسیپس ریفلیکٹنگ ، ٹرائسیپس اسپلٹنگ اور ٹرائسیپس اسپیئرنگ کے نقطہ نظر کے خلاف اولیکرانن آسٹیوٹومی کا موازنہ کیا اور موازنہ کے قابل مجموعی نتائج پائے گئے ، زیادہ تر اقدامات میں کوئی اعدادوشمار کے لحاظ سے اہم فرق نہیں دکھایا گیا [3].

بڑی عمر کے مریضوں میں یہ سوال حقیقی طور پر کھلا ہے

ایک مضبوط جذبہ ہے کہ ایک بے گھر intra-articular فریکچر مقرر کیا جانا چاہئے. بڑی عمر کے بالغوں میں یہ غریزی اچھی طرح سے موازنہ کے اعداد و شمار کی طرف سے حمایت نہیں کی جاتی ہے.

کا ایک منظم جائزہ 1,838 بڑی عمر کے مریضوں نے جراحی اور غیر جراحی کے انتظام کا موازنہ کیا اور پایا کہ ہر ایک علاج کے طریقوں کا مطالعہ کیا گیا ہے کہ کوہنی کی تقریب کی مناسب سطح پیدا کی [4]- جی ہاں . مصنفین اس بارے میں محتاط ہیں کہ یہ کام بند کرنے کی سفارش کیوں نہیں ہے: شامل مطالعے بڑے پیمانے پر غیر موازنہ تھے اور اس میں تعصب کا کافی خطرہ تھا۔ یہ برابری کے ثبوت کے بجائے برتری کے ثبوت کی عدم موجودگی ہے.

[ صفحہ ۲۱ پر تصویر] ایک کمزور مریض کے لیے کم فنکشنل ڈیمانڈ کے ساتھ، ایک منصوبہ جو جسمانی تعمیر نو کے بجائے آرام اور جلد حرکت کے ارد گرد بنایا گیا ہے، ایک قابل دفاع انتخاب ہے جو نتائج کی حمایت کرتا ہے جو بظاہر بدتر نہیں ہیں، اور یہ اوپر بیان کردہ ہر پیچیدگی سے بچتا ہے۔

آپ کے لیے اس کا کیا مطلب ہے؟

اس کے بعد تین باتیں ہیں: بحالی کے بارے میں ہونے کی توقع ہے تحریکہڈیوں کی شفا یابی نہیں، ہڈی آسان حصہ ہے. خاص طور پر پوچھیں کہ کیا نمائش کی منصوبہ بندی کی جاتی ہے اور یہ آپ کو کیا کرتا ہے. اور اگر آپ بڑی عمر کے ہیں، یا آپ کے بازو پر محدود تقاضے ہیں، براہ راست پوچھیں کہ کیا آپ کے معاملے میں غیر جراحی علاج معقول ہے، کیونکہ ایماندار جواب ہاں ہو سکتا ہے۔

حوالہ جات

[1] Yetter TR، Weatherby PJ، سومرسن جے ایس. مشترکہ ڈسٹل humeral فریکچر فکسشن کی پیچیدگیاں: ایک منظم جائزہ اور میٹا تجزیہ. J کندھے کی کہنی کی سرجری۔ 2021؛30(8): 1957-67۔ https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2021.02.017

[2] Spierings KE, Schoolmeesters BJ, Doornberg JN, Eygendaal D, van den Bekerom رکن پارلیمنٹ ڈسٹل ہومیرس فریکچر کے علاج میں olecranon osteotomy کی پیچیدگیاں. کلین کندھے کی کہنی 2022;25(2):163-9. https://doi.org/10.5397/cise.2021.00591

[3] یاؤ ایچ ، چن ڈبلیو ، لن زیڈ ، چاؤ ایچ۔ انٹرا آرٹیکلولر ڈسٹل ہومیرس فریکچر کے لئے مختلف پچھلے جراحی کے طریقوں کی موازنہ افادیت اور حفاظت. ج اورتھوپ سرجری ریزولوشن 2026؛ 21 ((1) ۔ https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-026-06739-x

[4] Stoddart MT، Panagopoulos GN، Craig RS، Falworth M، Butt D، Rudge W، et al. بڑی عمر کے بالغوں میں ڈسٹل humerus فریکچر کے علاج کا ایک منظم جائزہ: جراحی اور غیر جراحی کے اختیارات کا موازنہ. کندھے کوہنی. 2022;16(2):175-85. https://doi.org/10.1177/17585732221099845


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Overview

  • Reported outcomes for acute distal humerus fractures remain inconsistent across the orthopedic literature, making it difficult for surgeons to retrospectively compare surgical techniques and clinical outcomes across studies [3].
  • Internal fixation is generally accepted as the standard of care for the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures [4].
  • Rigid anatomic fixation combined with early motion is associated with favorable results for intra-articular distal humerus fractures [4].
  • Decision regarding the treatment for intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus should be based on a combination of the best available evidence and preference of the surgeon [10].
  • Older patients who underwent ORIF of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated good functional outcomes [1].
  • Older patients who underwent ORIF of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated similar complications to those in previously reported studies [1].
  • For comminuted distal humerus fractures in young patients, ORIF appears to be the preferred surgical option [14].
  • For comminuted distal humerus fractures in young patients, ORIF offers superior functional outcomes compared to hemiarthroplasty [14].
  • For comminuted distal humerus fractures in young patients, ORIF offers a lower incidence of complications and heterotopic ossification compared to hemiarthroplasty [14].
  • Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is a viable option in the treatment of unreconstructible distal humerus fractures [2].
  • Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is expected to yield good to excellent outcomes for unreconstructible distal humerus fractures [2].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty is a suitable option for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures [11].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty offers good functional outcomes for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures [11].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty offers acceptable complication rates for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures [11].
  • Elbow hemiarthroplasty is a viable option for complex distal humeral fractures in select patients [16].
  • Elbow hemiarthroplasty offers functional outcomes comparable to total elbow arthroplasty for complex distal humeral fractures [16].
  • Elbow hemiarthroplasty potentially avoids complications related to the ulnar component compared to total elbow arthroplasty [16].
  • Total elbow arthroplasty provides a successful treatment alternative for selected distal humerus fractures [32].
  • Total elbow arthroplasty is particularly indicated for distal humerus fractures in elderly patients with low anticipated physical demands, severe osteopenia, or comminution [32].
  • Open reduction and internal fixation with bone grafting is the treatment of choice for nonunion of distal humerus fractures if no excessive damage of the articular surface is present [5].
  • A 2021 systematic review represents the largest report of complications and reoperations of intra-articular distal humeral fractures after ORIF in the current literature [8].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Bony Anatomy

  • The elbow is a trocho-ginglymoid joint consisting of medial and lateral articulations that provide bony stability [37].
  • The medial side features the trochlea articulating with the ulna within the greater sigmoid notch to form the ulnohumeral, hinged, or trochoid portion of the joint [37].
  • The ulnohumeral articulation exhibits highly congruent anatomy through almost 180° of articular contact, excluding the bare area of the greater sigmoid notch which lacks cartilage [37].
  • The coronoid process possesses medial and lateral facets that buttress the trochlea anteriorly [37].
  • The sublime tubercle is located just distal and medial to the coronoid and serves as the attachment site for the anterior bundle of the medial ulnar collateral ligament [37].
  • The medial epicondyle is larger and more posteriorly oriented than the lateral epicondyle and serves as the attachment site for the origins of the flexor pronator mass [37].
  • Laterally, the capitellum and radial head form the radiocapitellar joint [37].
  • The radial head is a concave elliptical structure covered with articular cartilage along the radiocapitellar joint and approximately 270° of the articular margin [37].
  • The radial head articulates with both the capitellum and the lesser sigmoid notch of the ulna [37].
  • The radius is held in close approximation to the ulna at the proximal radioulnar joint by the annular ligament [37].
  • The distal humeral articulation is angled 30° from the longitudinal axis of the humerus [37].
  • The anterior humeral line should pass through the center of the axis of rotation to avoid loss of flexion or extension during reconstructive efforts [37].
  • The axis of rotation is angulated 5° to 7° in the coronal plane relative to the epicondylar axis, with the medial side positioned more distal than the lateral side [37].
  • This coronal angulation accounts for the change from a valgus carrying angle to a more varus position as the elbow flexes [37].
  • The ulna medially bends approximately 8° at 8 cm from the tip of the olecranon [37].
  • The articulation to the tip of the coronoid is approximately 30° from the long axis of the ulna in the sagittal plane [37].
  • The central area of the distal humerus comprises a coronoid fossa and an olecranon fossa, which is thin to allow extensive range of motion but acts as a weak point for complex fractures [9].
  • The medial column holds the medial epicondyle and medial portion of the humeral trochlea and appears continuous with the humeral shaft axis when viewed from the side [9].
  • The lateral column is flexed relative to the humeral shaft, placing the capitellum ahead of the trochlea [9].
  • The epiphyseal section of the distal humerus containing the trochlear and capitellum articular surfaces is in 4–8° valgus relative to the shaft [9].
  • The epiphyseal section of the distal humerus is externally rotated by 3–8° relative to the metaphysis [9].
  • The epiphyseal section of the distal humerus is flexed 40° relative to the shaft [9].
  • The radial head should line up with the capitellum at all arm positions on all radiographic views [38, 39].
  • Tensile forces are present at the medial elbow, while compressive forces are present at the lateral elbow [38, 39].

Ligaments and Soft Tissue

  • Elbow stability is conferred by bony articular anatomy and ligamentous structures on the medial and lateral sides [25].
  • The primary stabilizers of the elbow are the ulnohumeral articulation, the medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL), and the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) complex [25].
  • The secondary stabilizers of the elbow are the radiocapitellar articulation, the common flexor tendon, the common extensor tendon, and the joint capsule [25].
  • The medial ulnar collateral ligament is the primary valgus stabilizer of the elbow [38, 39].
  • The anterior bundle of the medial ulnar collateral ligament is the most important component for stability [38, 39].
  • The posterior bundle of the medial ulnar collateral ligament undergoes the greatest change in length and becomes taut at flexion beyond 120 degrees [38, 39].
  • The lateral ulnar collateral ligament acts as the posterolateral stabilizer of the elbow [38, 39].
  • Osborne’s ligament stabilizes the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel [38, 39].
  • The ligament of Struthers is a variant anatomy arising from the supracondylar process to attach to the medial epicondyle and is a potential site of median nerve compression [38, 39].
  • The joint capsule allows maximum distension at approximately 70 to 80 degrees of flexion [38, 39].
  • The anterior capsule attaches at a point approximately 6 mm distal to the tip of the coronoid [38, 39].
  • The coronoid tip is an intraarticular structure that is visualized during elbow arthroscopy [38, 39].

Muscles

  • The brachialis is the strongest elbow flexor and attaches to the coronoid 11 mm distal to the tip [38, 39].
  • The biceps brachii inserts at the ulnar margin of the radial tuberosity and acts as a powerful supinator of the forearm [38, 39].
  • The triceps is the primary elbow extensor and inserts on the olecranon process [38, 39].
  • The mobile wad consists of the brachioradialis, extensor carpi radialis longus, and extensor carpi radialis brevis [38, 39].
  • The flexor-pronator mass consists of the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor carpi ulnaris, and flexor digitorum superficialis [38, 39].

Pathophysiology and Biomechanics

  • The normal elbow has a range of motion from 0° to 140° from extension to flexion [25].
  • The normal elbow has a range of motion of 75° in pronation and 85° in supination [25].
  • A functional arc for the elbow is 100° for flexion and extension and forearm rotation [25].
  • Injury to primary or secondary stabilizers causes elbow instability [25].
  • Malunion is a common complication after distal humerus fractures influenced by biology, reduction, fixation methods, and mechanical failure [6].
  • Normal function of the distal humerus is difficult to restore if the joint is deformed by malunion or stiffened by heterotopic ossifications or capsular and ligament contractures [9].
  • Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus can involve the capitellum, the trochlea, or both [56].
  • Capitellum fractures account for 1% of all elbow fractures and 6% of distal humeral fractures [56].
  • A potential mechanism for coronal shear fracture involves a direct axial load transmitted to the capitellum by the radial head following a fall onto an outstretched hand [56].
  • A second mechanism for coronal shear fracture involves lateral collateral ligament complex failure, posterolateral subluxation, and shearing of the capitellum and trochlea by the radial head and coronoid during forearm reduction [56].
  • Posterior shear fractures of the distal humerus mostly involve the posterior aspect of the capitellum and are often associated with elbow dislocation [50].
  • The inherent complexity of the distal humerus makes a single treatment method unrealistic [24].

Classification

  • The AO/OTA classification scheme for distal humerus fractures categorizes type A fractures as extraarticular metaphyseal, transcondylar, and apophyseal [19].
  • The AO/OTA classification scheme for distal humerus fractures categorizes type B fractures as partial articular [19].
  • The AO/OTA classification scheme for distal humerus fractures categorizes type C fractures as complete articular [19].
  • Distal humerus fractures are classified using the AO/OTA classification system [20].
  • The Dubberley classification is utilized for describing coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus and selecting the surgical approach [52].
  • Outcomes for capitellum fractures are unclear due to the use of multiple classification systems [55].

Clinical Presentation

  • Fractures of the distal humerus account for approximately 0.5% of all fractures in adults [20].
  • The incidence of distal humerus fractures is approximately 5.8/100,000 people reported over 1 year in a high volume trauma centre [20].
  • The distribution of distal humerus fractures by age is unimodal with a low risk in young adults that increases from the age of 50 years and rises markedly in those over 80 years [20].
  • There is a higher incidence of distal humerus fractures in the female population [20].
  • Distal humerus fractures are osteoporotic fractures [20].
  • The number of distal humerus fracture cases is thought to be increasing in developed nations due to the ageing population [20].
  • The age-adjusted incidence of distal humerus fractures may be consistent or falling slowly [20].
  • Approximately 3000 distal humerus fractures in adults and children are treated surgically every year in France [9].
  • An orthopaedic surgeon in France sees an average of five distal humerus fractures per year [9].
  • In older adults with isolated distal humerus fractures, mortality at 1 and 2 years is substantial [17].
  • In older adults with isolated distal humerus fractures, mortality is strongly predicted by comorbidity burden and preinjury ambulation [17].

Investigations

Imaging Modalities

  • Plain radiographs remain the hallmark and best screening test for elbow evaluation [25].
  • Standard radiographic views include AP, lateral, and oblique projections [43].
  • Computed tomography (CT) is helpful for assessing malunion architecture and the location and pattern of osteophytes or loose bodies [43].
  • Three-dimensional CT is used to check for heterotopic ossification [43].
  • CT is not necessary when elbow stiffness is entirely soft-tissue related [43].
  • CT is beneficial if any joint incongruity or abnormal bony anatomy is present [43].
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to evaluate ligaments and tendons but is rarely indicated for elbow stiffness [43].
  • CT Hounsfield Unit (HU) measurements in the coronal plane may identify patients with poorer bone quality at higher risk for postoperative mechanical complications following distal humerus fracture fixation [23].

Physical Examination

  • The physical examination of the elbow is directed by history and the location of the patient's pain in the anterior, posterior, medial, or lateral aspect [25].
  • Stability of the elbow is conferred by bony articular anatomy and ligamentous structures on the medial and lateral sides, which should be the focus of physical examination [25].
  • The normal elbow has a range of motion of 75° and 85° in pronation and supination, respectively [25].
  • Elbow stability is determined by primary stabilizers (ulnohumeral articulation, MUCL, LUCL complex) and secondary stabilizers (radiocapitellar articulation, common flexor tendon, common extensor tendon, joint capsule) [25].
  • Active and passive flexion, extension, supination, and pronation should be evaluated using a goniometer for accurate measurement [43].
  • If the elbow has less than 90° to 100° of flexion, the posterior bundle of the medial collateral ligament is contracted and must be released to restore flexion [43].
  • Pain during the mid-arc of range of motion is more common with intrinsic disease and may not improve with contracture release alone [43].
  • The ulnar nerve is of utmost importance in the physical examination due to its anatomic proximity to the elbow [43].
  • Electromyography and nerve conduction velocity studies should be performed if there is any question about neurologic dysfunction [43].
  • An assessment for ulnar nerve subluxation should be performed, as subluxation is a relative contraindication for an arthroscopic procedure [43].

Diagnostic Considerations

  • Reported outcomes for acute distal humerus fractures remain inconsistent across the orthopedic literature, making it difficult to retrospectively compare surgical techniques and clinical outcomes [3].
  • The treatment process for articular distal humerus fractures consists of determining the injury mechanism, defining diagnostic modalities, and developing a treatment algorithm [9].

Treatment

General Principles and Decision Making

  • The management of distal humeral fractures remains problematic, particularly in elderly patients with osteoporosis and comminution where ORIF may be impossible [21].
  • Non-operative treatment is generally reserved for completely undisplaced stable fractures or for patients in whom the risks of surgery outweigh the benefits [20].

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)

  • Older patients who underwent ORIF of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated good functional outcomes and similar complications to those in previously reported studies [1].
  • Both orthogonal and parallel plating techniques can be used to treat distal humerus fractures with excellent outcomes [15].
  • Dual plating provides the most rigid and reliable construct for reduction of the articular surface to allow for early range of motion and physical rehabilitation [24].
  • Current evidence indicates that OO, TRA, TS, and TT posterior approaches provide comparable overall clinical outcomes in the management of AO/OTA type C complete intra-articular distal humerus fractures [22].

Arthroplasty

  • Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is a viable option in the treatment of unreconstructible distal humerus fractures, with good to excellent outcomes expected [2].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty is a suitable option for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures and offers good functional outcomes with acceptable complication rates [11].
  • DHH yields satisfactory functional outcomes and range of motion in complex distal humerus fractures not amenable to fixation, particularly in elderly patients [13].
  • Total elbow arthroplasty provides a successful treatment alternative for selected distal humerus fractures, particularly in elderly patients with low anticipated physical demands, severe osteopenia, or comminution [32].
  • Total elbow arthroplasty can be considered for the treatment of acute distal humeral fractures when osteosynthesis is not feasible, particularly in physiologically older patients with lower demands on the joint [33].
  • The indications for semiconstrained total joint replacement for acute fractures of the distal humerus are limited to a restricted group of patients older than 60-65 years with an extensively comminuted fracture that is not amenable to adequate and stable osteosynthesis [27].
  • Salvage TEA represents a viable option for the management of post-traumatic sequelae following the treatment of a distal humeral fracture [12].
  • Patients who underwent salvage TEA had a significantly increased rate of complications and significantly inferior functional outcomes compared with those who underwent TEA acutely [12].

Complications

Mechanical and Bony Complications

  • A thorough smoking history and CT HU measurements in the coronal plane may identify patients with poorer bone quality at higher risk for postoperative mechanical complications following distal humerus fracture fixation [23].
  • The high risk of complications in olecranon osteotomy must be considered in the decision to perform this procedure in the treatment of distal humerus fractures [59].
  • Elbow hemiarthroplasty potentially avoids complications related to the ulnar component [16].
  • Patients who underwent salvage total elbow arthroplasty had a significantly increased rate of complications compared with those who underwent total elbow arthroplasty acutely [12].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty offers acceptable complication rates [11].

Mortality

  • In older adults with isolated distal humerus fractures, mortality at 1 and 2 years is substantial and strongly predicted by comorbidity burden and preinjury ambulation [17].

Recovery

Functional Outcomes and Salvage Procedures

  • Older patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated good functional outcomes [1].
  • Good to excellent outcomes are expected for distal humerus hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of unreconstructible distal humerus fractures [2].
  • Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty offers good functional outcomes with acceptable complication rates for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures [11].
  • Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty yields satisfactory functional outcomes and range of motion in complex distal humerus fractures not amenable to fixation [13].
  • Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty yields satisfactory functional outcomes and range of motion in complex distal humerus fractures not amenable to fixation, particularly in elderly patients [13].
  • Elbow hemiarthroplasty offers functional outcomes comparable to total elbow arthroplasty for complex distal humeral fractures in select patients [16].
  • Salvage total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) represents a viable option for the management of post-traumatic sequelae following the treatment of a distal humeral fracture [12].
  • Patients who underwent salvage TEA had a significantly increased rate of complications compared with those who underwent TEA acutely [12].
  • Patients who underwent salvage TEA had significantly inferior functional outcomes compared with those who underwent TEA acutely [12].
  • In the older cohort, intra-articular fractures were consistently and temporally associated with a more than two-fold increased risk of TEA compared with extra-articular fractures at every time point studied [61].
  • Nearly 5.5% of patients with intra-articular fractures progressed to TEA by 10 years [61].

Complications and Mortality

  • Malunion is a common complication after distal humerus fractures [6].
  • Malunion after distal humerus fractures is influenced by biology, reduction, fixation methods, and mechanical failure [6].
  • In older adults with isolated distal humerus fractures, mortality at 1 and 2 years is strongly predicted by comorbidity burden and preinjury ambulation [17].
  • Transposition does not have a protective effect against the development of late ulnar neuropathy after distal humerus fracture repair surgery [62].

Measurement and Risk Factors

  • Reported outcomes for acute distal humerus fractures remain inconsistent across the orthopedic literature [3].
  • The inconsistency in reported outcomes for acute distal humerus fractures makes it difficult for surgeons to retrospectively compare surgical techniques and clinical outcomes across studies [3].

Key Evidence

  • [L4] Older patients who underwent ORIF of the distal humerus using a parallel construct demonstrated good functional outcomes and similar complications to those in previously reported studies. [1] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.01.030)
  • [L4] Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is a viable option in the treatment of unreconstructible distal humerus fractures, with good to excellent outcomes expected. [2] (10.1016/j.jse.2022.02.015)
  • [L1] Reported outcomes for acute distal humerus fractures remain inconsistent across the orthopedic literature, making it difficult for surgeons to retrospectively compare surgical techniques and clinical outcomes across studies. [3] (10.1016/j.otsr.2018.08.017)
  • [L5] Internal fixation is generally accepted as the standard of care for the treatment of intra-articular distal humerus fractures, with rigid anatomic fixation combined with early motion associated with favorable results. [4] (10.1016/j.hcl.2007.09.001)
  • [L5] Open reduction and internal fixation with bone grafting is the treatment of choice for nonunion of distal humerus fractures if no excessive damage of the articular surface is present. [5] (10.1016/j.jisako.2024.07.002)
  • [L5] Malunion is a common complication after distal humerus fractures influenced by biology, reduction, fixation methods, and mechanical failure. [6] (10.1016/j.jisako.2024.05.009)
  • [L1] This systematic review is the largest report of complications and reoperations of intra-articular distal humeral fractures after ORIF in the current literature. [8] (10.1016/j.jse.2021.02.017)
  • [L4] [9] (10.1016/j.otsr.2013.11.002)
  • [L5] Decision regarding the treatment for intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus should be based on a combination of the best available evidence and preference of the surgeon. [10] (10.5397/cise.2019.22.2.113)
  • [L4] Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty is a suitable option for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures and offers good functional outcomes with acceptable complication rates. [11] (10.1177/17585732211023100)
  • [L1] Salvage TEA represents a viable option for the management of post-traumatic sequelae following the treatment of a distal humeral fracture, although patients who underwent salvage TEA had a significantly increased rate of complications and significantly inferior functional outcomes compared with those who underwent TEA acutely. [12] (10.1302/0301-620x.108b1.bjj-2025-0475.r1)
  • [L1] DHH yields satisfactory functional outcomes and range of motion in complex distal humerus fractures not amenable to fixation, particularly in elderly patients. [13] (10.1016/j.jseint.2026.101695)
  • [L4] For comminuted distal humerus fractures in young patients, ORIF appears to be the preferred surgical option, offering superior functional outcomes and a lower incidence of complications and heterotopic ossification. [14] (10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.07.014)
  • [L5] Distal humerus fractures are complex, and both orthogonal and parallel plating techniques can be used to treat these difficult fractures with excellent outcomes. [15] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.008)
  • [L4] Elbow hemiarthroplasty is a viable option for complex distal humeral fractures in select patients, offering functional outcomes comparable to total elbow arthroplasty while potentially avoiding complications related to the ulnar component. [16] (10.1177/1758573216640210)
  • [L3] In older adults with isolated distal humerus fractures, mortality at 1 and 2 years is substantial and strongly predicted by comorbidity burden and preinjury ambulation. [17] (10.1016/j.jse.2026.02.013)
  • [L5] [19] (10.5435/00124635-201001000-00004)
  • [L1] [20] (10.1177/17585732251328594)
  • [L5] The management of distal humeral fractures remains problematic, particularly in elderly patients with osteoporosis and comminution where ORIF may be impossible. [21] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.11.012)
  • [L1] Current evidence indicates that OO, TRA, TS, and TT posterior approaches provide comparable overall clinical outcomes in the management of AO/OTA type C complete intra-articular distal humerus fractures, with most outcome measures showing no statistically significant differences. [22] (10.1186/s13018-026-06739-x)
  • [L3] A thorough smoking history and CT HU measurements in the coronal plane may identify patients with poorer bone quality at higher risk for postoperative mechanical complications following distal humerus fracture fixation. [23] (10.5435/jaaos-d-26-00191)
  • [L4] Although the inherent complexity of the distal humerus makes a single treatment method unrealistic, dual plating provides the most rigid and reliable construct for reduction of the articular surface to allow for early range of motion and physical rehabilitation. [24] (10.1016/j.jse.2025.12.020)
  • [L5] [27] (10.1097/01.blo.0000131485.47685.8c)
  • [L4] Total elbow arthroplasty provides a successful treatment alternative for selected distal humerus fractures, particularly in elderly patients with low anticipated physical demands, severe osteopenia, or comminution. [32] (10.1016/j.hcl.2015.06.008)
  • [L4] Total elbow arthroplasty can be considered for the treatment of acute distal humeral fractures when osteosynthesis is not feasible, particularly in physiologically older patients with lower demands on the joint. [33] (10.2106/jbjs.d.02871)
  • [L4] Posterior shear fractures of the distal humerus mostly involve the posterior of the capitellum and are often associated with elbow dislocation. [50] (10.1016/j.jse.2026.05.003)
  • [L4] The study confirms the utility of the Dubberley classification in describing the fracture and selecting the surgical approach. [52] (10.1016/j.jse.2025.05.033)
  • [L4] The article summarizes the existing body of evidence on capitellum fractures, noting that outcomes are unclear due to multiple classification systems and a literature consisting of small case series without comparative groups, and proposes areas for future study. [55] (10.1177/1558944719878817)
  • [L4] [56] (10.1016/j.hcl.2004.08.001)
  • [L2] The high risk of complications in olecranon osteotomy must be considered in the decision to perform this procedure in the treatment of distal humerus fractures. [59] (10.5397/cise.2021.00591)
  • [L4] In the older cohort, intra-articular fractures were consistently and temporally associated with a more than two-fold increased risk of TEA compared with extra-articular fractures at every time point studied, with nearly 5.5% of patients progressing to TEA by 10 years. [61] (10.1177/17585732261451863)
  • [L1] The authors conclude that transposition does not have a protective effect against the development of late ulnar neuropathy after distal humerus fracture repair surgery. [62] (10.1016/j.hcl.2017.09.010)

References

[1] The Outcomes of Intra-Articular Distal Humerus Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Using Parallel Precontoured Plates in the Elderly. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.01.030

[2] Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for trauma: a systematic review of the outcomes and complications. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2022.02.015

[3] Outcomes of distal humerus fractures: What are we measuring?. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2018. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2018.08.017

[4] Distal Humerus Fractures. Hand Clinics. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2007.09.001

[5] Nonunion of distal humeral fractures: Current concepts. Journal of ISAKOS. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jisako.2024.07.002

[6] Malunion of distal humeral fractures: Current concepts. Journal of ISAKOS. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jisako.2024.05.009

[8] Complications of articular distal humeral fracture fixation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2021.02.017

[9] Articular fractures of the distal humerus. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2013.11.002

[10] Surgical Treatment Strategy for Distal Humerus Intra-articular Fractures. Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow. 2019. DOI: 10.5397/cise.2019.22.2.113

[11] Outcomes and complications of distal humeral hemiarthroplasty for distal humeral fractures – A systematic review. Shoulder & Elbow. 2021. DOI: 10.1177/17585732211023100

[12] Total elbow arthroplasty for the management of post-traumatic sequelae of distal humeral fractures. The Bone & Joint Journal. 2026. DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.108b1.bjj-2025-0475.r1

[13] Distal humerus hemiarthroplasty for complex intra-articular fractures in elderly or nonfixable patients: a meta-analysis of clinical and functional outcomes. JSES International. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jseint.2026.101695

[14] Hemiarthroplasty vs. open reduction and internal fixation for comminuted distal humerus fractures in patients under 65 years: a systematic review. JSES Reviews, Reports, and Techniques. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.07.014

[15] Use of Orthogonal or Parallel Plating Techniques to Treat Distal Humerus Fractures. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.008

[16] Elbow hemiarthroplasty for the management of distal humeral fractures: current technique, indications and results. Shoulder & Elbow. 2016. DOI: 10.1177/1758573216640210

[17] Predictors of mortality after isolated distal humerus fractures in older adults. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2026.02.013

[19] Current Treatment Strategies for Bicolumnar Distal Humerus Fractures. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeon. 2010. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-201001000-00004

[20] A systematic review, and meta-analysis of pain outcomes following total elbow replacement and hemi-replacement for unreconstructible acute distal humerus fractures in adults. Shoulder & Elbow. 2025. DOI: 10.1177/17585732251328594

[21] Distal humeral fractures: fixation versus arthroplasty. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.11.012

[22] Comparative efficacy and safety of different posterior surgical approaches for Intra-articular distal humerus fractures. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2026. DOI: 10.1186/s13018-026-06739-x

[23] Can Computed Tomography Hounsfield Units Predict Distal Humerus Fracture Mechanical Complications?. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2026. DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-26-00191

[24] Outcomes of intra-articular distal humerus open reduction and internal fixation based on severity of articular comminution. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.12.020

[25] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update 13 Ebook Without Multimedia. Anatomy, Biomechanics, Physical Examination, and Imaging of the Elbow > Summary and Conclusions.

[27] Treatment of Distal Humerus Fractures in the Elderly. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 2004. DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000131485.47685.8c

[32] Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Distal Humerus Fractures. Hand Clinics. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2015.06.008

[33] Distal Humeral Fractures Treated with Noncustom Total Elbow Replacement. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2005. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.d.02871

[37] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update 13 Ebook Without Multimedia. Anatomy, Biomechanics, Physical Examination, and Imaging of the Elbow > Anatomy > Bony Anatomy.

[38] Miller S Review Of Orthopaedics. SECTION 16 PATELLAR TRACKING IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY > TABLE 2.3 Shoulder Spaces.

[39] Miller S Review Of Orthopaedics. Genetics of musculoskeletal conditions and abnormalities are summarized in Table 1.27 > TABLE 2.3 Shoulder Spaces.

[43] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Elbow Stiffness* > IV. Evaluation.

[50] Surgical treatment for posterior distal humeral shear fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2026.05.003

[52] Unsatisfactory radiographic findings do not correlate with functional impairment in patients with coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus treated with internal fixation: a long-term retrospective study according to Dubberley's classification. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.05.033

[55] Coronal Shear Fractures of the Distal Humerus: A Review of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcomes. HAND. 2019. DOI: 10.1177/1558944719878817

[56] Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus: the capitellum and trochlea. Hand Clinics. 2004. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2004.08.001

[59] Complications of olecranon osteotomy in the treatment of distal humerus fracture. Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow. 2022. DOI: 10.5397/cise.2021.00591

[61] What is the incidence of total elbow arthroplasty after intra-articular versus extra-articular distal humerus open reduction and internal fixation?. Shoulder & Elbow. 2026. DOI: 10.1177/17585732261451863

[62] Ulnar Nerve Management with Distal Humerus Fracture Fixation. Hand Clinics. 2018. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2017.09.010

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a. for the avoidance of doubt, Section 2(a)(1) grants You the right to extract, reuse, reproduce, and Share all or a substantial portion of the contents of the database for NonCommercial purposes only;

b. if You include all or a substantial portion of the database contents in a database in which You have Sui Generis Database Rights, then the database in which You have Sui Generis Database Rights (but not its individual contents) is Adapted Material; and

c. You must comply with the conditions in Section 3(a) if You Share all or a substantial portion of the contents of the database.

For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 4 supplements and does not replace Your obligations under this Public License where the Licensed Rights include other Copyright and Similar Rights.

Section 5 -- Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability.

a. UNLESS OTHERWISE SEPARATELY UNDERTAKEN BY THE LICENSOR, TO THE EXTENT POSSIBLE, THE LICENSOR OFFERS THE LICENSED MATERIAL AS-IS AND AS-AVAILABLE, AND MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND CONCERNING THE LICENSED MATERIAL, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY, OR OTHER. THIS INCLUDES, WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF TITLE, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, ABSENCE OF LATENT OR OTHER DEFECTS, ACCURACY, OR THE PRESENCE OR ABSENCE OF ERRORS, WHETHER OR NOT KNOWN OR DISCOVERABLE. WHERE DISCLAIMERS OF WARRANTIES ARE NOT ALLOWED IN FULL OR IN PART, THIS DISCLAIMER MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

b. TO THE EXTENT POSSIBLE, IN NO EVENT WILL THE LICENSOR BE LIABLE TO YOU ON ANY LEGAL THEORY (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, OR OTHER LOSSES, COSTS, EXPENSES, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THIS PUBLIC LICENSE OR USE OF THE LICENSED MATERIAL, EVEN IF THE LICENSOR HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH LOSSES, COSTS, EXPENSES, OR DAMAGES. WHERE A LIMITATION OF LIABILITY IS NOT ALLOWED IN FULL OR IN PART, THIS LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

c. The disclaimer of warranties and limitation of liability provided above shall be interpreted in a manner that, to the extent possible, most closely approximates an absolute disclaimer and waiver of all liability.

Section 6 -- Term and Termination.

a. This Public License applies for the term of the Copyright and Similar Rights licensed here. However, if You fail to comply with this Public License, then Your rights under this Public License terminate automatically.

b. Where Your right to use the Licensed Material has terminated under Section 6(a), it reinstates:

1. automatically as of the date the violation is cured, provided it is cured within 30 days of Your discovery of the violation; or

2. upon express reinstatement by the Licensor.

For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 6(b) does not affect any right the Licensor may have to seek remedies for Your violations of this Public License.

c. For the avoidance of doubt, the Licensor may also offer the Licensed Material under separate terms or conditions or stop distributing the Licensed Material at any time; however, doing so will not terminate this Public License.

d. Sections 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 survive termination of this Public License.

Section 7 -- Other Terms and Conditions.

a. The Licensor shall not be bound by any additional or different terms or conditions communicated by You unless expressly agreed.

b. Any arrangements, understandings, or agreements regarding the Licensed Material not stated herein are separate from and independent of the terms and conditions of this Public License.

Section 8 -- Interpretation.

a. For the avoidance of doubt, this Public License does not, and shall not be interpreted to, reduce, limit, restrict, or impose conditions on any use of the Licensed Material that could lawfully be made without permission under this Public License.

b. To the extent possible, if any provision of this Public License is deemed unenforceable, it shall be automatically reformed to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable. If the provision cannot be reformed, it shall be severed from this Public License without affecting the enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions.

c. No term or condition of this Public License will be waived and no failure to comply consented to unless expressly agreed to by the Licensor.

d. Nothing in this Public License constitutes or may be interpreted as a limitation upon, or waiver of, any privileges and immunities that apply to the Licensor or You, including from the legal processes of any jurisdiction or authority.


Creative Commons is not a party to its public licenses. Notwithstanding, Creative Commons may elect to apply one of its public licenses to material it publishes and in those instances will be considered the “Licensor.” The text of the Creative Commons public licenses is dedicated to the public domain under the CC0 Public Domain Dedication. Except for the limited purpose of indicating that material is shared under a Creative Commons public license or as otherwise permitted by the Creative Commons policies published at creativecommons.org/policies, Creative Commons does not authorize the use of the trademark "Creative Commons" or any other trademark or logo of Creative Commons without its prior written consent including, without limitation, in connection with any unauthorized modifications to any of its public licenses or any other arrangements, understandings, or agreements concerning use of licensed material. For the avoidance of doubt, this paragraph does not form part of the public licenses.

Creative Commons may be contacted at creativecommons.org.