Osteosynthesis in distal intra-articular humeral fractures

The rising incidence of distal intra-articular humeral fracture in elderly patients associated with osteoporosis frequently leads to difficulties in acute reconstruction and may result in early failure of internal fixation. The biomechanics of the elbow joint and especially the flexor group as well as the brachioradialis muscle as part of the extensor group is analyzed. The complex motion pattern of the transarticular muscle groups increases the load on internal fixation and may affect the interface between implant and osteoporotic bone. An external fixator with motion capacity serves to protect the internal osteosynthesis and secures the fixation in osteoporotic bone.