[First results after the use of a Y-plate for the stabilization of supradiacondylar humeral fractures].

A new implant for the stabilisation of supra- and diacondylar fractures of the humerus is assessed. If compared with other implants this y-shaped plate has a considerably better stability. Due to different diameters of the holes 4.5 mm screws may be used for the long part, 3.5 mm screws for the branches of the plate, which in most cases allow good stabilisation and early mobilisation of the limb. Out of twelve patients, operated since 1981, ten were reexamined for follow-up after a mean of 34.1 months. All of the fractures stabilised with the y-plate were healed with normal osseous consolidation. According to the scheme of Cassebaum, the result was excellent in five, good in four and unsatisfactory in one patient. For each of the two available types of plates the dimensions proved to be sufficient with respect to the branches. However, for cases with fractures continuing into the humeral shaft, an additional type with a longer mainpart would seem desirable.