Open Distal Humerus Fractures: Review of the Literature (Report‪)‬

Fractures of the distal humerus can be difficult to treat related to the periarticular nature of these injuries and the complexity of the elbow joint. Anatomic repair of the distal humerus is essential in order to restore adequate function of the elbow, and thorough attention to postoperative therapies is essential to maximizing elbow range of motion. It is therefore understandable that when one is presented with an open distal humerus fracture, the difficulty of effective treatment and restoration of adequate elbow function can become even more complicated. In addition to the concerns regarding neurovascular compromise, soft tissue injury, bony loss, and infection, open fractures present challenges and controversies when one also considers the possible treatment options, strategies, and timing of surgery. Successful management of these injuries requires urgent and aggressive soft tissue management, skeletal stabilization (either through internal or external fixation), and treatment of neurovascular insult (if applicable). This article presents a review of the current literature available concerning the epidemiology, assessment and examination, treatment options, complications, and outcomes of patients with open distal humerus fractures. Epidemiology and Incidence