2002, Number 3
Dyaphyseal humeral fractures treated by trapezoidal external fixation system
González-Ruiz O, Sánchez-Vázquez M, Padilla-Becerra F, Cisneros-García J, Redondo-Aquino G
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Language: Spanish
References: 12
Page: 163-165
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ABSTRACT
Objectives. To evaluate the results of treatment for humeral shaft dyaphyseal fractures by a monoplanar external fixator, in which pins outline a “trapezoidal” design between the external rod and the humerus, as the pins direct their line of strenght towards the medial cortical of the fractured bone, aiming to concentrate the strenght of the system into the fracture focus. Material and methods. This method was applied in 34 male and female adult cases over 15 years, from April 1992 through December 1993, who had either recent or ancient humeral fracture. Pins were inserted at a converging angle of 30 degrees in order to perform a closing angle around the humeral fracture. Patients remained in hospital from 1 to 21 days, more in regard to their associated injuries than because of the humeral fracture. Postoperative follow-up was in average 18.5 weeks. Results. Bone union was achieved in 26 out of the 34 cases (74.3%) by the present method in an average of 14.5 weeks. The remaining 8 patients had humeral pseudoarthroses; 7 were treated by open reduction; 2 had have previous open reduction and late infection as a former treatment. Conclusion. Treatment of humeral fractures by the “trapezoidal” external fixation system allowed average good results in present series. Main recorded advantages are reduced time in hospital as well as preserving movement in all the affected upper extremity while in treatment.REFERENCES