Dependency between treatment outcome in pseudarthrosis of the humeral shaft and the surgical technique applied

Background. Treatment of non-union has always been one of the most difficult problems in bone pathology. In the present study we compare outcomes using 9 different methods of non-union treatment. Material and methods. From 1976 to 2003, 70 patients with 85 cases of pseudoarthrosis in the humeral shaft were operated. During that period, 103 operations using 9 different methods were performed. The study group consisted of 17 females, 36 males and 17 children, ranging in age from 3 to 85 years. The operation techniques were compared based on the achievement of bone union and recovery of limb functional efficiency. Nonunion type was also taken into account. Results. A high percentage of bone union was obtained by using a perforated block of corticocancellous graft taken from the iliac crest. The most complete limb function recovery was achieved using this method, as well as Judet's decortication with cancellous grafting and firm osteosynthesis. Conclusions. In oligotrophic and non-viable humeral shaft non-union, the most effective method is pseudarthrosis excision, using a perforated block of corticocancellous graft from the iliac crest to fill the gap, and firm osteosynthesis. Judet's decortication with cancellous grafting and firm osteosynthesis secured good outcome in hypertrophic pseudarthrosis.