A study of the nutrient foramina of the humeral diaphysis.

ABSTRACT

Non-union of the humeral shaft remains a difficult clinical problem and it may appear after any method of treatment; closed or open reduction. For this reason the precise location of nutrient foramen of humerus and relevant anatomy should be known. The anatomy of the nutrient foramina of humeral diaphysis has been studied in 200 human humeri. Measurements were taken with the help of osteometric board and observations were noted. In present study 77% foramina were found medially; on ulnar border & anteromedial surface (zone A & B). The mean position of nutrient foramen lies distal to the mid-point of humerus (mean 1.5 cm distal, vertical zone III). Of 200 humeri, 63% had a single nutrient foramen which implies that the major blood supply to humeral shaft will enter at one particular point. Knowledge of the anatomy of nutrient foramina is significantly important for orthopaedic surgeons doing open reduction of fracture mid shaft humerus, in order to avoid injuring nutrient artery & thereby lessens the chances of delayed or non-union of fracture shaft humerus.