Vidyadhar S. Donimath1, Suryakanth Kalluraya2, A. E. Chandan3, Mrutyanjay Battur4
BACKGROUND
Fracture of the humerus shaft accounts to 3% to 5% of all fractures. Majority of the fractures are unstable due to distraction force of the gravity in the upper limb and strong muscle contraction leading to displacement. Internal fixation and early mobilisation is more stressed on than splinting and prolonged immobilisation to allow earlier mobilisation and rapid return to work.
The aim of the study was to study the union rates and the functional outcome and complications associated with shaft humerus fractures in KIMS Hospital.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A prospective study which was carried out from October 2015 to September 2017 in Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubballi, Karnataka State, India. In this study period, 25 cases of fracture shaft of the humerus were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using DCP. Skeletally mature patients with fresh humerus diaphysis fractures were included in the study. Pathological fractures and Tscherne grade 2 and above, Gustilo Anderson type2 and above were excluded from the study.
RESULTS
In our series of 25 cases, there were 21 men and 4 women with average age of 42.5 years. Sixteen (64%) cases were due to RTA and with predominance of right side. Transverse fractures were most common that is 15 (60%) patients. Eleven (31%) cases were having associated injuries. 92% of the fractures united with good to excellent outcome. There were 2 (8%) cases of non-union due to infection and comminution.
CONCLUSION
Open reduction and internal fixation with dynamic compression plate is still the standard treatment of choice for fracture shaft of humerus achieving excellent to good functional outcome.
KEYWORDS
Dynamic Compression Plate, Delayed Union, Fractures, Humeral Shaft, Nonunion, Transverse.
