Excision of comminuted distal humeral lateral condyle fractures: A report of two cases

Abstract

F ractures of the distal humeral lateral condyle are rare injuries in the adult, accounting for approximately 5% of fractures of the distal humerus.6 The lateral condyle is defined by both the articular and nonarticular supports of the lateral column. The capitellum, comprising only a portion of the lateral distal humeral column, is entirely intra-articular and does not include the metaphysis, epicondyle, or posterior nonarticular surface of the distal humerus.3 The mechanism of injury producing lateral condylar fractures is variable, ranging from indirect to direct trauma forces.6 However, the amount of fracture displacement and comminution is dependent on the level of energy producing the fracture. For displaced fractures, especially those involving the articular surface, reduction and internal fixation remain the goal in order to allow early motion while ensuring stability.8,12 Unfortunately, some fractures are not amenable to internal fixation. The following case presentations depict two lateral column injuries not believed to be reconstructable that were treated with excision of the lateral condyle.