Related Experiment Videos
External fixation of open humerus fractures
J L Marsh1, C R Mahoney, D Steinbronn
1University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Department of Orthopaedics, Iowa City 52242, USA.
The Iowa Orthopaedic Journal
|June 10, 2000
Summary
Monolateral external fixators effectively treated open humerus shaft fractures, with most patients achieving fracture healing and good functional outcomes. Nerve palsies were common but often resolved or improved with treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Management
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Open humerus shaft fractures pose significant treatment challenges, often associated with high rates of complications.
- Nerve injuries, particularly radial nerve palsies, are a frequent concern in these complex fractures.
- External fixation offers a potential solution for stabilizing these injuries, but its efficacy and complication profile require detailed evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of using a monolateral external fixator for treating open humerus shaft fractures.
- To assess the incidence and management of associated nerve injuries.
- To report on fracture healing rates, functional recovery, and patient satisfaction following external fixation.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of fifteen patients with open humerus shaft fractures was treated using a monolateral external fixator.
- Patient data regarding fracture healing, nerve injury, complications (pin tract infections, pin breakage), and functional outcomes were prospectively collected.
- Follow-up assessments included clinical evaluation of function, pain, and patient satisfaction at an average of 63 months post-injury.
Main Results:
- All fifteen fractures achieved union, with an average external fixation duration of 21 weeks.
- Nine patients experienced nerve palsies; two required radial nerve grafting, while others showed spontaneous or partial improvement.
- Complications included pin tract infections in eight patients (resolved with local care/antibiotics) and pin breakage in two patients requiring reoperation.
Conclusions:
- Monolateral external fixation is an effective treatment for open humerus shaft fractures, leading to high rates of fracture healing.
- Nerve injuries are common but often have favorable outcomes with appropriate management.
- Despite complications like pin tract infections and occasional pin breakage, patients report high satisfaction and good functional recovery long-term.