Results of Masquelet technique in the treatment of non-union of humeral fractures

Abstract

Introduction: Nonunion is found with an incidence of up to 15%, depending on the location of the fracture and is a complicated problem with significant long-term morbidity, both for anatomical and functional results. In case of a manifest nonunion the surgeon faces a challenging problem. Fracture nonunion sometimes occurs after treatment, and some patients are still difficult to heal after many times of treatment. In order to more effectively treat nonunion and heal patients with recalcitrant nonunion, a technique known as Masquelet technique is an alternative for these cases. Aim and Objective: The aim of this retrospective was to show the clinical and radiological outcomes achieved with the use of this reconstruction technique in the treatment of non-union of humeral fractures in order to characterize the defects treated and describe different aspects of this surgical approach.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study enrolled consecutive patients with non-union of humeral fractures who were treated using Masquelet technique between January 2020 and December 2020 in Govt. Bone and Joint Hospital, Barzulla Srinagar. A total of 18 patients were enrolled in this study with mean age of 47.24 (range 18-67) years. There were 11 female and 7 male patients.Results: In the last follow-up, all patients had clinical and radiographical signs of bone consolidation. None of them was lost to follow-up. Successful healing was detected in all patients after a median time period of six months (1 to 23). Median follow-up time was 12 months (11 to 29). Patients with successful bone healing were significantly younger (mean 43.7 years) than patients with persisting nonunion (mean 59.4 years).Conclusion: The Masquelet technique, or the induced membrane technique, offers a feasible and simple alternative for a highly challenging condition such as non-union after repetitive procedures.