Medial approach to the distal humerus

The main indications for a medial approach to the distal humerus are:

Isolated medial epicondyle avulsion fractures
Isolated medial trochlear fractures (very rare)

Center the incision over the medial epicondyle and extend it proximally over the medial supracondylar ridge and distally in the line of the flexor/pronator mass as required.

Note: The incision is usually crossed by the posterior branch of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. Take care of this nerve branch during the dissection of the subcutaneous tissue; if it is divided, neuroma formation can be troublesome.

Identify the ulnar nerve proximally between the triceps muscle and the medial intermuscular septum, in the groove posterior to the medial epicondyle, and distally between two heads of the flexor carpi ulnaris.

Gently free the ulnar nerve and protect it. If anterior transposition of the nerve becomes necessary, take care to preserve the motor branch to the flexor carpi ulnaris.

Note: It is essential that the OR report should clearly describe how the ulnar nerve has been protected and the location of the nerve at the end of the operation.

The medial epicondyle fracture should now be identified, mobilized, and prepared for fixation.

If access to the trochlea is required, a split in the flexor/pronator muscle mass anterior to the origin of the medial collateral ligament should be made.

The planned capsulotomy is marked in red.