Humeral shaft fracture management, a prospective study; nailing or plating

In this fast moving & advancing era no body want to remain handicapped in immobilization by cast with limited movement. As our knowledge is growing, orthopedic implants and appliances also advancing, and creating a very potential options to manage fracture shaft of humerus by internal fixation either by plate osteosynthesis or interlocking nailing. We are here to evaluate the options of internal fixation; nailing and plating.

We prospectively evaluated the results of 30 patients having humeral Shaft fracture. Who were internally fixed by antegrade interlocking nailing (15) and DCP plate (15). Patients are followed up on average of 16-19 months and results were evaluated with standard protocol.

All fractures united uneventfully with usual complication. However we need 2 reoperation in nailing and 1 case of plating for bone grafting.

Internal fixation have immense use in providing better results in form of less deformity, early mobilization and good union. Plating is better option for fixation in terms of less union time, better joint function and lesser reoperation However Nailing is good alternative as minimal invasive approach, less infection, less nerve injury, less chance of implant failure.