Treatment of radial neuropathy associated with fracture humerus

Twelve humeral shaft fractures with associated radial nerve injuries in twelve patients, with adequate follow-up were seen over a period of three years. Initial treatment was closed reduction and plaster fixation in eleven patients. Two of the twelve patients were treated by delayed exploration at ten and twelve weeks. All patients had complete recovery of radial nerve functions. We recommend careful observation for return of radial nerve functions, and exploration at twelve weeks after injury if there is still no clinical or electromyographic evidence of recovery at that time