Clin Should Elbow.  2013 Dec;16(2):107-114.

Clinical and Radiographical Follow-up for Residual Displacement of Fracture Fragments after Interlocking Intramedullary Nailing in Humeral Shaft Fractures

• Yum JK
• Lim DJ
• Jung EY
• Sohn SE

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study is designed to evaluate the clinical and radiographical results for the displacement of fracture fragments after interlocking intramedullary nailing in humeral shaft fractures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed the results of 8 cases of humeral shaft fractures that have displacements of over 10 mm and under 20 mm after interlocking intramedullary nailing between July 2004 and August 2011. The mean age was 54.1 years (range, 43 to 70 years) and there were 3 male and 5 female patients. Radiographically, the time to bony union, change of displacement and angulation of the fracture site, and degree of improvement of these two factors were measured. Clinically, the range of motion of shoulder and elbow joints, postoperative pain and complications were evaluated.
RESULTS
All cases showed complete bony union in last follow-up. The mean time to bony union was 16.1 weeks. At the last follow-up, almost all cases had normal range of motion of shoulder and elbow joints. But, one case had stiffness of shoulder joint. Therefore, arthroscopic capsular release and manipulation was performed. One case had transient shoulder pain and the other case had transient elbow pain. In the two cases, pull-out of proximal interlocking screw were noted, but they finally had bony union.
CONCLUSION
Although considerable displacement of fracture fragments after interlocking intramedullary nailing in humeral shaft fractures was present, we had excellent radiographical and clinical outcomes. Therefore, an additional procedure, such as open reduction or another fixation for the fracture site, was not necessary.

MeSH Terms

Elbow
Elbow Joint
Female
Follow-Up Studies*
Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary*
Humans
Humerus
Joint Capsule Release
Male
Pain, Postoperative
Range of Motion, Articular
Reference Values
Retrospective Studies
Shoulder
Shoulder Joint
Shoulder Pain