Published in:
01-04-2013 | Original Article
Study on outcome of fracture shaft of the humerus treated non-operatively with a functional brace
Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 3/2013
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Background
Non-operatively treated fractures of the humeral diaphysis have a high rate of union with good functional results. The objective of this study is to find out the outcome of fractures of the humeral diaphysis treated with a functional brace that permits motion of shoulder and elbow joints and progressive use of the injured extremity.
Materials and methods
This was a descriptive analytical study in patients of 16 years and above with closed fracture shaft of humerus treated with a functional brace that permits the motion of shoulder and elbow joints. The fracture arms were initially stabilized with U slab or hanging cast for an average of 11 days before application of brace. Radiographs were made at each follow-up visit until the fracture union occured. Angulation at fracture site, motion at shoulder and elbow joint were measured at the time of removal of brace.
Results
One hundred and five out of 108 fractures (97.2 %) were united with mean duration of 12.16 weeks (range, 7.5–19.3 weeks). Radial nerve injury was present in 6 cases (5.5 %). Varus angulation of ≤15° was present in 90.9 % out of 99 patients, while no angulation was present in 6 cases (5.7 %) out of 105 patients. Apex anterior angulation of ≤10° was present in 100 % out of 48 patients, whereas apex posterior angulation of ≤10° was present in 94.1 % out of 51 patients.
Conclusion
Functional bracing for the treatment of fractures of the humeral diaphysis is associated with a high rate of union with nearly normal elbow motion and some restriction of shoulder motion.