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Intrathoracic Humeral Head Fracture: A Case Report
Kalvin Zee1, Shiv Patel1, Joseph Losh2
1General Surgery, MercyOne Medical Center, Des Moines, USA.
Cureus
|July 23, 2025
Summary
Intrathoracic humeral head fractures are rare, high-energy injuries near vital chest structures. This case highlights successful treatment of a fracture that also caused a thoracic aorta laceration.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Intrathoracic humeral head fractures are uncommon injuries resulting from significant trauma.
- These fractures pose life-threatening risks due to proximity to intrathoracic structures.
- No established treatment guidelines currently exist for this rare injury.
Observation:
- A patient presented with an intrathoracic humeral head fracture.
- The fracture was associated with a laceration of the thoracic aorta.
- This represents a severe and complex traumatic injury.
Findings:
- The patient with an intrathoracic humeral head fracture and thoracic aorta laceration was successfully treated.
- This case demonstrates a viable management approach for a life-threatening injury.
Implications:
- This case may inform future treatment strategies for similar rare and severe injuries.
- Highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management in complex thoracic trauma.
- Further research is warranted to develop evidence-based guidelines for intrathoracic humeral head fractures.
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