Abstract:To evaluate the clinical effect of operative management of intra-articular fractures of distal humerus using modified triceps tongue flap approach. Methods A total of 102 patients with intra-articular fractures of distal humerus in our hospital from June 2012 to April 2015 were selected as study objects, and randomly divided into experimental group and control group, each group had 51 cases. Modified triceps tongue flap approach was used in the experimental group while classical triceps tongue flap approach was used in the control group. The patients were followed up 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery when standard anteroposterior and lateral (AP/Lat) radiographs were taken and the functional outcome was assessed using range of elbow motion, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and Objective Muscle Strength Testing (MRC Grade) of triceps muscle. The postoperative complications of the two groups were compared. Results The mean duration of follow-up was (12.9 ±1.1) months, ranging from 12 to 14 months. There was no significant difference in age, gender, duration of follow-up or other basic information between the two groups ( p> 0.05). The DASH score of the experimental group was significant better than that of the control group 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment ( p< 0.05). The mean healing duration of fracture in the experimental group was significant shorter than that in the control group (p < 0.05). What's more, theDASH score, muscle strength and flexion deformity of the elbow at final follow-up were all significant better in the experimental group (p < 0.05). The range of motion improved within six months after operation. There was no obvious complication in any patient. Conclusions Modified triceps tongue flap approach provides an excellent exposure as well as a good functional outcome as measured by DASH score and full range of elbow motion with return of almost complete power of the extensor apparatus in patients with intra-articular fractures of distal humerus. Compared with classical triceps tongue flap approach, modified triceps tongue flap approach has better clinical effect, and is worthy of spreading and applying.