J Korean Fract Soc.  2011 Jul;24(3):237-242.

Intramedullary Nailing for Complex Fractures of the Proximal and Midshaft of the Humerus

• Cho CH
• Jung GH
• Kim KW

Abstract

PURPOSE
To evaluate the results of antegrade interlocking intramedullary nailing for complex fractures of the proximal and midshaft of the humerus.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and radiologic results in 11 cases, which were treated by antegrade interlocking intramedullary nail. We assessed clinical outcomes according to ASES scoring system and radiological result.
RESULTS
All cases had bony union and the mean union period was 14.7 weeks. Postoperative complications were 1 loss of fixation, 2 proximal protrusion of nail and 2 temporary shoulder pain. A case with loss of fixation was treated open reduction and refixation and had union at 14 weeks postoperatively. The mean ASES score was 85.9 and the clinical outcomes were 4 excellent, 5 good, 1 fair and 1 poor.
CONCLUSION
Intramedullary nailing for complex fractures of the proximal and midshaft of the humerus can offer a reliable treatment option.

Keyword

Proximal humerus; Shaft; Complex fracture; Intramedullary nailing

MeSH Terms

Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary
Humerus
Nails
Postoperative Complications
Retrospective Studies
Shoulder Pain

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Extended type, 51-year-old man. (A) Preoperative radiographs show comminuted fracture of the proximal and shaft of right humerus. (B) Postoperative radiographs show internal fixation using AO humeral nail. (C) Radiograph at 9 months after the surgery show complete bony union.

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  Fig. 2 Segmental type, 23-year-old woman. (A) Preoperative radiographs show segmental fracture of the proximal and shaft of right humerus. (B) Postoperative radiographs show internal fixation using Polarus plus nail. (C) Radiograph at 6 months after the surgery show complete bony union.

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  Fig. 3 Extended type, 55-year-old woman. (A) Preoperative radiographs show fracture of the proximal 1/3 of right humerus. (B) Radiographs at 5th postoperative day show fixation failure after internal fixation using Polarus nail. (C) Radiograph at 12 months after revision surgery show complete bony union.

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