PURPOSE: This is a retrospective study to analyze the clinical results of the usefulness of the lateral J plate fixations in distal humeral shaft and metaphyseal fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From October 1996 to May 2000, eleven patients with distal humeral shaft and metaphyseal fracture were treated by open reduction and internal fixations with lateral J plate fixations. The clinical results were analyzed according to Morrey 's functional rating scale. Radiological unions, complication, and range of motion of the elbow were assessed. RESULTS: All fractures were united at 12 weeks (range, 10 ~18) in average. Finally, average range of motion of the elbow joint was flexion contracture 6 degrees in average(range, 0 ~20) to further flexion 126 degrees in average (range, 90 ~1 5 0 ) . Morrey 's functional rating scale were as follows; excellent 4, good 6, and fair 1. CONCLUSION: Lateral J plate fixations can be a good treatment method for the transitional zone of distal humeral shaft and metaphyseal fractures.