Posterior Dual Plating for Distal Shaft Fractures of the Humerus

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results and efficacy of posterior dual plating for distal shaft fractures of the humerus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 12 patients, who underwent open reduction and internal fixation using posterior dual plating for distal shaft fractures of the humerus, between July 2007 and July 2015, with at least 6 months of follow-up. After locating the radial nerve without dissection via posterior triceps splitting, the fracture was stabilized using a short 3.5 mm locking compression plate. Then additional fixation, using a long 3.5 mm locking compression plate, was performed. The clinical outcomes were assessed in accordance with the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) scoring system, and the radiological outcomes were assessed using serial plain radiographs. RESULTS: Eleven patients (91.7%) had bony union, and the mean union period was 13.9 weeks. In one patient, delayed union was treated by autogenous iliac bone graft at 8 months after surgery, which resulted in bony union. The mean MEPI score was 95.8, and the clinical outcomes were excellent in 9 patients and good in 3 patients. Postoperative complications included 1 elbow stiffness by heterotopic ossification and 1 temporary radial nerve palsy. One patient with temporary radial nerve palsy was completely recovered within the first 4 days after surgery. CONCLUSION: Posterior dual plating for distal shaft fractures of the humerus revealed satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes. It can be a useful alternative to provide stable fixation without the need for a dissection of the radial nerve.

Dislocation of the Shoulder with Ipsilateral Humeral Shaft Fracture: A Case Report

Dislocation of the shoulder with ipsilateral humeral shaft fracture is very rare, but serious injury that requires emergent care. There have been approximately 20 cases reported in the English literature, but it has never been reported in Korea. We report a case of dislocation of right shoulder with ipsilateral humeral shaft fracture which was successfully treated by closed reduction of the shoulder under general anesthesia and internal fixation with antegrade interlocking intramedullary nailing for the humeral shaft fracture.