Complications and morbidity of the extended delto-pectoral approach in treating complex humeral shaft fractures with proximal metaphyseal extension using a long locking plate for internal fixation.

Publication

Complications and morbidity of the extended delto-pectoral approach in treating complex humeral shaft fractures with proximal metaphyseal extension using a long locking plate for internal fixation.

Journal Paper/Review - Oct 10, 2024

Rechsteiner Jan, Grieb Maximilian, Zdravkovic Vilijam, Spross Christian, Jost Bernhard

Citation

Rechsteiner J, Grieb M, Zdravkovic V, Spross C, Jost B. Complications and morbidity of the extended delto-pectoral approach in treating complex humeral shaft fractures with proximal metaphyseal extension using a long locking plate for internal fixation. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:801.

Type

Journal Paper/Review (English)

Journal

BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25

Publication Date

Oct 10, 2024

Issn Electronic

1471-2474

Pages

801

Brief description/objective

Humeral shaft fractures account for up to 3% of all fractures, but complex forms of those fractures (type AO/OTA B or higher) are rare. Plate and screw fixation of the fracture are rated as consolidated from 80 to 97%. Reported complications include non-union, secondary radial nerve palsy and infection. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) should provide the same union rate as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) but potentially with fewer complications. The aim of our study was to review patients treated for complex humeral fractures with ORIF through an extended delto-pectoral approach using a long pre-contoured locking plate. The morbidity of the open approach, complication rates, union rate and clinical outcomes were assessed.