Abstract
Introduction and Aims: The purpose of this study was to analyse the results of a new intramedullary retrograde humeral nail used for fixation of difficult fractures of humerus.
Method: In Airedale NHS Trust and Calderdale hospitals, 282 patients were treated for displaced humeral fractures. The new nail called Halder Humeral Nail (HHN) was inserted from the olecranon roof proximally towards the head of humerus. It had a specialised locking system by opening of a trio wire at the proximal head of humerus and distally near the elbow the nail was locked with the help of a screw on a plate. Patients were mobilised immediately after surgery in a polysling.
Results: At six weeks, 95% of patients were pain free and could perform daily activities comfortably. Average post-operative Constance score was 74.7. Complications included proximal migration of the nail and the trio wire in seven cases; six patients had non-union and one patient had infection. Breakage of trio wire was seen in five cases. This resulted in modification of the nail by introducing an additional screw to lock at proximal humerus around the trio wires.
Conclusion: We concluded that stable internal fixation and a good fracture union could be achieved by this new HHN, especially in a displaced humeral fracture, even in poor quality bone with fracture at different level. Pain-free movements, and early recovery was possible without damaging the rotator cuff and risking the axillary nerve.
These abstracts were prepared by Editorial Secretary, George Sikorski. Correspondence should be addressed to Australian Orthopaedic Association, Ground Floor, The William Bland Centre, 229 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.
One or more of the listed authors are receiving or have received benefits or support from a recognised academic body for the pursuance of the study.
