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Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

Published in:

01-03-2004 | Original Article

Treatment of humeral shaft nonunions: nailing versus plating

Authors: Ángel A. Martínez, Jorge Cuenca, Antonio Herrera

Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery | Issue 2/2004

Abstract

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare plating and nailing for treating nonunions of the upper two-thirds of the humerus.

Materials and methods

Fifty nonunions of the upper two-thirds of the humerus were treated by two different methods: 24 of them by unreamed locked nailing and bone graft (group A), and the other 26 by plate fixation and bone grafting (group B).

Results

All fractures healed in both groups. In group A, the time required for healing was 4.2 months (range 4–6 months), whereas in group B it was 4.7 months (range 4–6 months). This difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Functional results and the range of motion of the shoulder and elbow were similar with both techniques. In group B there were 3 cases of transient, iatrogenic, radial nerve palsy.

Conclusions

We feel that both plate fixation and the unreamed humeral locked nail are good alternatives for the treatment of humeral shaft nonunions, although nailing achieves union earlier and has fewer complications.

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Title: Treatment of humeral shaft nonunions: nailing versus plating
Authors: Ángel A. Martínez
Jorge Cuenca
Antonio Herrera
Publication date: 01-03-2004
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery / Issue 2/2004
Print ISSN: 0936-8051
Electronic ISSN: 1434-3916
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-003-0608-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Treatment of humeral shaft nonunions: nailing versus plating

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

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