The use of simple monolateral bar external fixation as a definitive treatment of humeral shaft fractures

Abstract EN

Background : dynamic Compression Plating (DCP) has been the most accepted available surgical fixation method for fractures of humerus shaft in our country.

DCP has biological shortcomings.

By giving priority to biology, the " internal fixator " principle, has been popularized, bearing some similarity to an external fixator (EF). Aim of the study : EF is being evaluated as an acceptable definitive fixation for this injury. Methods : between January 2005 and April 2009, 31 patients with acute fracture of the humeral shaft requiring surgical stabilization were treated using simple unilateral bar EF.

Reduction achieved either closed or open.

Time till union, time till removal of EF, and elbow and shoulder range of motion were recorded, and compared with corresponding values from studies using DCP or EF. Results : average time till surgery was 5.32 days.

Average time for union and dynamization of EF was 11.55 weeks.

And for removal of EF was 15.1 weeks. Conclusion : monlateral bar EF for treatment of humerus shaft fractures is reliable, effective, low risk, with maximum protection of soft tissue.

Considering the renewed attention in biological approaches, it’s a reasonable alternative to DCP, the only surgical alternative available in our country.