Fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus are notorious for complications, most commonly nonunion with subsequent proximal migration of the ununited fragment, an increase in the carrying angle, and the tardy ulnar nerve palsy. In the past, the reconstructive surgery for complicated old fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus had been hardly considered, but recently, attempts have been made to reconstruct the anatomy and function of the elbow joint.

The authors have reviewed 21 cases of old fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus, which had been treated at Seoul National University Hospital from April,1982 until March, 1990.

For established nonunions of the lateral condyle fragment, better results were obtained from the procedure that includes osteosynthesis of the lateral condyle, attempting to restore the normal anatomy of the elbow joint. For tardy ulnar nerve palsies, better results were obtained from the procedure that includes medial epicondylectorny.

Fractures of the lateral humeral condyle have many late problems in spite of treatment at the time of injury so early aggressive treatment is necessary. Even in cases with late problems, aggressive treatment should be done, too, as soon as possible.