Internal Fixation of Humeral Shaft Fractures Using Anterior Plating Technique

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical results after anterior plate fixation for humeral shaft fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 20 patients with a humeral shaft fracture. Anterior plate fixation with anterolateral approach to the humeral shaft was performed in all cases. Time to fracture healing, presence of complications such as radial nerve injury, and range of motion of the affected shoulder and elbow joint were assessed. RESULTS: All fractures were united and the mean healing time was 16 weeks (range, 12 week to 1 year). There were one nonunion and one postoperative radial nerve palsy. The nonuion was treated with a longer plate and bone grafting, resulting in union. The radial nerve palsy recovered at 4 months after operation. Two preoperative radial nerve injury recovered spontaneously at 6 to 8 months. The mean flexion of elbow was 125degrees and mean extension was 0degrees. The mean flexion of shoulder was 170degrees and mean extension was 170degrees. CONCLUSION: Internal fixation of humeral fractures using anterior plating technique is recommended as a reliable method to regain satisfactory range of motion of the elbow and shoulder.