Surgical mx of humeral fractures

Question 1

Explain what condition ‘Floating elbow’ is

Answer 1

A fracture of the humerus and a fracture of the radius in the same arm

Question 2

Explain what condition ‘Floating shoulder’ is?

Answer 2

Fracture of the humerus and fracture of the clavicle or scapula in the same arm

Question 3

Name 4 definite indications for surgical treatment in a humeral fracture?

Answer 3

1. Open fractures
2. Segmental fractures
3. Neurovascular injury
4. Floating elbow / floating shoulder
5. Adequate alignment is difficult ot maintain e.g. transverse fractures

Question 4

Methods of surgical treatment

Answer 4

1. Intron platingamedullary nailing

2. Compressi

Question 5

What is intramedullary nailing?

Answer 5

a permenant rod or nail is placed at the centre of the bone to fix the bone and keep it stab;e

Question 6

When is intramedullary nailing indicated?

Answer 6

1. pathological fractures
2. segmental fractures
3. osteoporotic fractures

Question 7

What is compression plating?

Answer 7

metallic plate used in orthopaedics for internal fixation of the bone

Question 8

Which is the surgical treatment of choice and why?

Answer 8

1. Compression plating

2. better union rate and lower complication rte compared with nailing