What is a fracture of the distal humerus?

The end of the bone of the upper arm (the distal humerus) and the upper ends of the two bones of the forearm (the proximal ulna and radius) meet to form the elbow. The distal humerus can break during a fall or another type of injury (figure).

Figure: a distal humerus fracture.

Signs and symptoms:
A fracture of the distal humerus causes pain and limits your ability to move the elbow. You might feel the bones moving. A bruise and swelling usually spread down the arm within a few days.

Evaluation:
Your doctor will perform x-rays to diagnose the fracture and help decide if surgery might help. When the fracture is far out of place or the joint surface is affected, surgery is an option. Your doctor will examine you to be sure there is no nerve or blood vessel damage.