Abstract
Introduction
Treatment for distal third shaft fractures of humerus is very challenging. They are commonly treated with plating. Plating has complications of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy. We report our case series of distal third fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral Nail.
Materials/Methods
Since 1994 to 2010 we have 576 fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral nail. Of these 45 fractures were distal third of humerus. Average age of patients at the time of surgery was 30.4 years (Range 15–82 years, Median 33 years). Of 45 patients 26 were females and 19 males. Three out of 45 had non union at the time of presentation. All patients were followed until clinical and radiological signs of union. One patient was lost to follow-up.
Results
Average time to fracture healing was 13.9 weeks (Range 9–36 weeks). There were two cases of non union, one healed at 9 months with 2nd surgery. There was one reported case of infection. Seven patients had nail removal electively. All the patients achieved full range of elbow and shoulder movement. No reported cases of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy.
Conclusion
Our results of distal third fractures of humerus treated with retrograde Halder Humeral Nail are excellent. It avoids big exposure as needed in plating and complication of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy.
