Operative management of fracture of shaft humerus by dynamic compression plate versus interlocking intramedullary nailing: A comparative prospective study of 30 cases

Abstract

Background: Uncomplicated diaphyseal fractures of the humerus successfully healed in over 90% of cases when treated conservatively by reduction and immobilization. Open reduction with internal fixation, is preferred for open, segmental and pathological fractures. Objective: To compare functional outcomes, union and complication rates in patients treated with locked intramedullary nailing or dynamic compression plating for humeral shaft fractures. Materials and Methods: We randomized prospectively 30 patients with fractures of the shaft of the humerus were treated by open reduction and internal fixation by dynamic compression plate (DCP) in 15 cases and closed reduction and internal fixation with interlocking intramedullary nail in 15 cases. Patients were followed up for a minimum of six months. Result: There were no significant differences in the function of the shoulder and elbow, as determined by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons′ score, the visual analogue pain score, range of movement, or the time taken to return to normal activity. In our study, complications in DCP and IMN groups common were radial nerve injury and shoulder impingement. We had to perform secondary surgery on four patients in the IMN group, but on only one in the DCP group. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that open reduction and internal fixation with a DCP remains a better treatment option for fractures of the shaft humerus. Fixation by IMN may be indicated for specific situations, but is technically more demanding and has a higher rate of complications.

Keywords

• Closed intra medullary locking nail
• dynamic compression plate
• fracture shaft humerus