Treatment Outcome of Intramedullary Fixation with a Locked Rigid Nail in Humeral Shaft Fractures.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the treatment outcome of humeral shaft fractures with a locked rigid intramedullary nail in patients indicated for surgical treatment.

METHODS: In this descriptive-cross sectional study, all patients were followed up for one, six, and 18 months post operatively. The Short Form Questionnaire (SF-36) and Constant Shoulder Score were applied.

RESULTS: Of 78 included patients (mean age: 35), one patient had a soft tissue infection, one had secondary radial nerve palsy, eight had non-union, one had elbow limited range of motion in extension, and three patients had decreased shoulder range of motion. The Constant Shoulder Score and Short Form Questionnaire Score (SF-36) increased in all patients, although aged women showed lower improvement.

CONCLUSION: Intramedullary nail fixation in the humeral shaft fracture may be associated with high rates of non-union.