Le fratture dell’omero: la fissazione esterna

Abstract

External fixation is not the first choice in the treatment of humeral fractures. In most cases ORIF is the best option. EF can be considered as a MIPO technique representing a good option in many cases: in open fractures, as damage control or definitive surgery in politrauma, in fractures with bone loss, in comminuted and unstable fractures and sometimes even in elderly patients with HA coated pins. Good results are only obtained if the frame is very stable with pins in a multiplanar configuration and with an adequate number of pins. EF versatility could help surgeons to stabilize the fracture and is the first step to obtain fracture healing. This article reports the rules for good synthesis and for preserving the radial nerve in the management of humeral shaft fractures. The authors report 37 humeral shaft fractures treated with external fixation, during a period of 30 years. Stability of the frame is the key to a favourable outcome.