We evaluated the biomechanical properties of two different methods of fixation for unstable fractures of the proximal humerus. Biomechanical testing of the two groups, locking plate alone (LP), and locking plate with a fibular strut graft (LPSG), was performed using seven pairs of human cadaveric humeri. Cyclical loads between 10 N and 80 N at 5 Hz were applied for 1 000 000 cycles. Immediately after cycling, an increasing axial load was applied at a rate of displacement of 5 mm/min. The displacement of the construct, maximum failure load, stiffness and mode of failure were compared.

The displacement was significantly less in the LPSG group than in the LP group (p = 0.031). All maximum failure loads and measures of stiffness in the LPSG group were significantly higher than those in the LP group (p = 0.024 and p = 0.035, respectively). In the LP group, varus collapse and plate bending were seen. In the LPSG group, the humeral head cut out and the fibular strut grafts fractured. No broken plates or screws were seen in either group.

We conclude that strut graft augmentation significantly increases both the maximum failure load and the initial stiffness of this construct compared with a locking plate alone.

Ulnar nerve function, during and after open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the distal humerus with subperiosteal elevation of the nerve, was assessed by intra-operative neurophysiological monitoring. Intermittent recording of the compound muscle action potentials was taken from the hypothenar muscles in 18 neurologically asymptomatic patients.

The mean amplitude of the compound muscle action potential after surgery was 98.1% (sd 17.6; −37% to +25%). The amplitude improved in six patients following surgery. Despite unremarkable recordings one patient had progressive paresis. Motor impairment is unlikely if the compound muscle action potential is continuously preserved and not reduced by more than 40% at the end of surgery. Temporary decreases in amplitude by up to 70% were tolerated without clinical consequences. However, repeated clinical examination is obligatory to recognise and treat early post-operative palsy.

The use of volar locking compression plates for the treatment of fractures of the distal radius is becoming increasingly popular because of the stable biomechanical construct, less soft-tissue disturbance and early mobilisation of the wrist. A few studies have reported complications such as rupture of flexor tendons. We describe three cases of rupture of extensor tendons after the use of volar locking compression plates. We recommend extreme care when drilling and placing the distal radial screws to prevent damaging the extensor tendons.