Küntscher intramedullary reaming and nail fixation for nonunion of the humerus

Thirteen cases of nonunion of the humerus were treated by intramedullary reaming and nail fixation. Rigid stabilization which was usual after operating upon other long bones was not always secured in these cases, and supplementary plaster immobilization was necessary. Seven fractures healed and 3 fractures required re-nailing before healing. Three fractures did not heal in spite of reoperation, but in 2 of these cases the nail provided stability and controlled pain and motion at fracture site. Nonunion of the humerus is a difficult problem, irrespective of the method of treatment.