A PROSPECTIVE FOLLOW UP STUDY OF EVALUATION OF SHOULDER FUNCTION AFTER ANTEGRADE INTERLOCKING NAILING IN HUMERUS SHAFT FRACTURES IN ADULTS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to assess the shoulder function after antegrade interlocking humerus nailing in humerus shaft fractures, duration of union, complications (immediate and late) of this xation. METHODS: In this prospective study 40 cases with humerus shaft fractures were treated with antegrade interlocking humerus nailing and followed up for functional outcomes and complications. RESULTS: The age of patients ranged from 18 to 57 years. The assessment of shoulder function was made according to CONSTANT score. Out of 40 patients shoulder function was excellent in 35 cases (87.5%), very good in 3 cases (7.5%) and fair in 1 case (2.5%). Period of fracture union ranged from 12 to 18 weeks, average period being 13.7 weeks. None had iatrogenic radial nerve injury and/or infection. CONCLUSION: We concluded that Locked intramedullary nailing is a novel treatment option for diaphyseal fractures of the humerus. By making correct entry, repairing rotator cuff, placing the nail inside proximal end and proper physiotherapy; shoulder function outcome can be improved to excellent in cases of humerus diaphyseal fractures treated with antegrade interlocking humerus nailing.