Use of orthogonal or parallel plating techniques to treat distal humerus fractures.

Distal humerus fractures continue to be a complex fracture to treat. This article describes two surgical techniques that can be used to tackle these difficult fractures: Parallel plating and orthogonal plating. Both techniques have yielded excellent outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation; yet each has its own set of unique considerations. However, the key to successful treatment of these difficult fractures regardless of technique remains obtaining anatomic reduction with stable fixation and the implementation of early motion. 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.