Complications associated with the Seidel nail

The Seidel nail is an intramedullary locking device available for the treatment of humeral shaft fractures that require operative fixation. A retrospective review of 13 consecutive patients treated with the Seidel nail was undertaken to evaluate results, with attention to complications. No nerve palsies or infections occurred. Complications occurred in 46% of the patients and included intraoperative comminution associated with lateral placement of the pilot hole, instrumentation failure, and underreaming of the canal, resulting in iatrogenic fracture.