Fracture of the Capitulum Humeri

Abstract

Fractures of the capitulum humeri are rare and the recommendations for treatment differ. Some authors recommend open reduction of the capitular fragment, while others advocate excising it.

Twelve patients with anterior shearing fractures of the capitulum humeri were treated as inpatients in the Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gothenburg, during the years 1973–1977. Ten patients, all treated with open reduction and internal fixation of the capitular fragment, were re-examined. The functional result was estimated as good in nine and poor in one.

Key words:

• capitellum
• capitulum humeri
• distal humerus
• fractures
• humeral fractures