Authors of section

Authors

Harry Hoyen, Simon Lambert, Joideep Phadnis

Executive Editor

Simon Lambert

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Medial approach to the distal humerus

1. Indications

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

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

2. Skin incision

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.
Skin incision for medial approach

3. Identification of the ulnar nerve

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.

Identification of the ulnar nerve

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.
Gently free the ulnar nerve and protect it.

4. Deep dissection

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.

The planned capsulotomy is marked in red.

5. Opening the joint

Proximally elevate the muscles and joint capsule from the medial supracondylar ridge to access the trochlea.

Distally open the joint capsule and reflected anteriorly to the medial collateral ligament.

Opening the joint

6. Wound closure

Close the wound in layers.

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