Journal List > J Korean Orthop Assoc > v.27(7) > 1114441

Kim, Im, Kong, and Jhe: A Clinical Study of the Humeral Shaft Fracture

Abstract

The shaft of humerus is capable of wide range of responses when it is fractured. The surgeon today has many therapeutic options from which to choose. The decision should be based on the type and location of fracture, the presence of concomitant injuries, and the age and general condition of the patient. Closed method of treatment is usually successful, although in some fractures union is difficult to obtain. However, in the event of failure of closed reduction, pathologic fracture, multiple fracture, multiple associated injuries and severe neurologic disorders, operative method may employed. Authors reviewed and analyzed 40 humeral shaft fractures which had been treated at Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Koryo General Hospital from January 1985 to June 1990. The results were as follows: 1. The high incidence of the humeral shaft fracture was found 20-40years and male was predominant than female. 2. The major cause of injury was traffic accident. 3. The most common type and site of fracture was comminuted middle 1/3 fracture. 4. The incidence of radial nerve injury were 4 cases. 5. Of the 40 cases, 14 cases were treated conservatively and 26 cases operatively. Among the 26 cases, 20 cases were treated by plate and screw fixation. 6. The average time of bone union was about 11.2 weeks in non-operative cases and 10.2 weeks in operative cases. 7. The most common complication was nonunion of 5 cases, the other complications were radial nerve palsy of 4 cases, infection of 3 cases, limitation of motion of 1 cases.

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