Comparative study of clinical outcome in management of fracture shaft of humerus by compression plating vs interlocking nail

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures of shaft of humerus is becoming common these days and there is debate about the choice of operative intervention in humerus shaft fractures requiring surgical intervention. The modes of treatment are also advancing, so this comparative study was conducted to assess the clinical outcome of this fracture managed by two most common methods antegrade interlocking nail fixation and dynamic compression plating. Aim of the study was to compare the results of open reduction and internal fixation with DCP or closed interlocking nailing in fractures shaft of humerus. Material and Methods: It was a prospective study, consisted of 32 patients with closed acute humeral shaft fractures were treated with either interlocking nailing or plating procedure divided in two groups randomly of 16 each. Study was conducted in department of orthopaedics KVG Medical College and Hospital, Sullia, D K, Karnataka. Results were evaluated and analyzed using Rodriguez-Merchan Criteria different parameter; age, male v/s female, mode of trauma, functional outcome and complications etc. Results: The average age of patient was 33 years, with male to female ratio 6:3, more common on right side 61.33%, road side accident in 63.33% cases as common mode of injury, middle third as common region 55.53%, most common AO type A3 52% cases, group A interlocking nailing shows 20% cases as excellent result and 45.67% cases showing satisfactory results. In group B, dynamic compression plating shows 85% cases excellent result with 20% cases shows satisfactory results. Preoperative radial nerve palsy was seen in 3 cases in our study. Conclusion: No single treatment is superior in all cases for a particular fracture and each case has to be individualized. In the present study it was concluded that compression plating is better than interlocking nail for management of fracture shaft humerus.