OTA 2008 Posters

Scientific Poster #126 Upper Extremity OTA-2008

Comparative Results of Non-Operative and Operative Treatment of Humeral Shaft Fractures

Bo-song Zhang, MD (n); He Liang, MD (n); Man-yi Wang, MD (b-Synthes);
Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China

Purpose: This study was designed to clinically evaluate the effectiveness of operative methods versus nonoperative methods for the treatment of humeral shaft fractures. The hypothesis was that the operative treatment improved the clinical results for humeral shaft fractures.

Methods: From March 1995 to October 2005, 252 cases of humeral shaft fractures were treated and were adequately followed up. According to the treatment methods, the patients were divided into two groups: the nonoperative group, 76 cases treated with plaster/small splint fixation; and the operative group, 176 cases treated with internal fixation. The follow- up parameters include: fracture healing rate, fracture union time, complications rate, Constant- Murley shoulder score and Mayo elbow score. There were no statistical significant differences in age and AO classification between the two groups.

Results: The mean follow-up period was 31.24 ± 20.06 months (range, 6-103 months). The fracture healing rate was: nonoperative group, 96.1% (72 of 76); operative group, 97.7% (172 of 176) (P = 0.46). Fracture union time was: nonoperative group, 10.24 ± 2.93 weeks; operative group, 10.69 ± 2.51 weeks (P = 0.22). The complication rate was: nonoperative group, 5.3% (4 of 76); the operative group, 15.3% (27 of 176) (P = 0.03). According to Constant-Murley shoulder score and Mayo elbow score, shoulder function and elbow function showed no statistical significance between the groups.

Conclusion: The operative treatment did not improve the clinical results for humeral shaft fractures, but carried a higher complication rate compared to that of the nonoperative treatment.

If noted, the author indicates something of value received. The codes are identified as a-research or institutional support; b-miscellaneous funding; c-royalties; d-stock options; e-consultant or employee; n-no conflicts disclosed, and *disclosure not available at time of printing.

• The FDA has not cleared this drug and/or medical device for the use described in this presentation   (i.e., the drug or medical device is being discussed for an “off label” use).  ◆FDA information not available at time of printing. Δ OTA Grant.