Humeral Shaft Fractures

Question 1

Cause of humeral shaft fractures?

Answer 1

• Direct trauma: RTA- Transverse/comminuted fractures

- Fall +/- twisting injury - Oblique/spiral fractures

Question 2

Pathology of humeral shaft fractures?

Answer 2

Radial nerve in spiral groove is susceptible to injury

-Wrist drop & loss of sensation in 1st dorsal web space

Question 3

Treatment of humeral shaft fracture?

Answer 3

High union rates:

• Non-operative with functional humeral brace
• Internal fixation: intramedullary nail/plate screws
• Non-unions: plating and bone grafting