Comparative study between posterior and modified posterior approaches of humeral diaphyseal fractures in adults

Abstract

Introduction The optimal treatment of humeral shaft fractures continues to be debated. In the current investigation, we sought to determine the clinical and radiographic outcomes following the plate fixation of humeral shaft fractures utilizing the modified posterior approach. Materials and methods A retrospective review identified a consecutive series of 30 humeral shaft fractures (OTA20-A, 10-B, or 0-C) treated with plate fixation via a posterior (14 patients), ormodified posterior approach (16 patients) between 2016 and 2017 by a single surgeon. Demographics, operative reports, clinical follow-up, and preoperative radiographs were reviewed. Postoperative radiographs were assessed for angular deformity and time to union. Range of motion and strength testing were also reviewed. Results A total of 30 humeral shaft fractures were reviewed with a mean clinical follow-up of 4 months. The mean time to union was13.1 weeks and there3 patients developed radial nerve palsies in posterior approach group and one case in modified posterior approach postoperatively. Conclusionboth approaches could be used in the management of humeral diaphyseal middle or distal third fractures, And the modified posterior approach confirmed by our results minimizes the complication rate, allow early return of full range of elbow motion and full triceps muscle power and facilitates early return to normal activities of the patient with excellent functional out comes .