Complications such as delayed wound healing, infection, post-traumatic degenerative change, instability or heterotopic ossification were not seen. Good results have been obtained only after exact anatomical definition of the fractures. We now prefer a chevron type osteotomy which creates increased bony contact and improved rotational stability. Improvements in fixation techniques have led to better functional results. Two reconstruction plates were used in most of our cases.
Appropriate rehabilitation is essential to obtaining good results.
All preoperative neurapraxias in our series were seen in association with type C2 and C3 fractures with considerable comminution after a high velocity injury. Exact documentation of preoperative nerve function and intraoperative exposure of the injured nerves is important. We believe that anterior transposition should be performed in all cases to protect the nerve, particularly from the medial distal humeral plate. We did not encounter other previously reported complications such as ectopic ossification and delayed wound healing. In conclusion, open reduction and stable osteosynthesis with early rehabilitation will give good results in patients with type C intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus.