Distal humerus shear-fractures: “Built-on” surgical technique

When treating a distal humeral shear fracture, comminution of the lateral column may preclude the reconstruction of the lateral articular fragments. In this article a new strategy for the management lateral column comminuted shear-fractures (LCCSF) is presented, called the “built-on” surgical technique. Three goals are obtained by this technique: (1) Restoration of the lateral column bone stock; (2) Provision of a solid scaffold for the repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL); and (3) Provision of a sable platform for the reconstruction and fixation of the articular fragments. We will obtain these goals through the following surgical steps: 1/ Reconstruction of the lateral trochlea. 2/ Reconstruction of the lateral column 3/ Fixation of the Capitellum 4/ Reconstruction of the LUCL