Interlocking nailing of humeral shaft fractures. A retrospective study of 114 patients.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the humeral shaft are relatively common injuries. Literature suggests that humeral shaft fractures represent approximately 3 % of all fractures. There are several modalities for the management of diaphyseal humeral fractures. The latest investigations emphasize the concept of minimal exposure and rigid fixation.

AIM: The aim of the study is to evaluate the results of antegrade intramedullary nailing in humeral shaft fractures.

DESIGN: A retrospective review.

SETTINGS: Patients were treated in private hospital settings by 3 orthopaedics surgeon.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1995 and 2003, the technique of antegrade locked intramedullary nailing with UHN in humeral shaft fractures was performed on 114 patients. Forty-two (36%) patients sustained multiple traumas, and 22 (19%) fractures were open. The outcomes were evaluated with a mean follow-up of 41 months.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Ranges of results given.

RESULTS: In 109 fractures primary union observed. In the other five patients union achieved after removal of the nail and fixation with DCP and bone grafting. The average time for union was 13 weeks (range, 10-36 weeks). One hundred-five patients had excellent or satisfactory recovery of shoulder and elbow function. Complications included impingement due to proximal locking screws in two patients and prominent nail in three patients, transient postoperative radial nerve palsy in four patients.

CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that antegrade locked nailing in humeral shaft fractures are reliable and also effective in multiply injured patients.