Management of humeral shaft fractures with anterior bridge plating-A minimally invasive approach: Management of humeral shaft fractures with anterior bridge plating-A minimally invasive approach

Avinash Tolani; Nadeem Lil; Shashank Ranka

Authors

Avinash Tolani Assistant Professor, Dept. of Orthopaedics, NHL Muncipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Nadeem Lil Professor, Dept. of Orthopaedics, NHL Muncipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Shashank Ranka Second year Resident, Dept. of Orthopaedics, NHL Muncipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Abstract

Introduction: MIPO(Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis) of long bone fracture is a new concept which is gaining popularity as it is minimally invasive, requiring less dissection and also preserves fracture biology at the same time. Aims and objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical, functional and radiological result of bridge plating of humeral shaft fractures using MIPO technique and comparing the results to the traditional and more extensive posterior approach of humerus plating. Material and Methods: 20 patients with humeral shaft fractures that were treated by bridge plating using MIPO technique between Jan 2016 to Jan 2018 were included in this study. All cases were managed by closed reduction and application of a 4.5mm Locking Compression Plate (L.C.P) over the anterolateral surface of the humerus. The UCLA shoulder score was used to evaluate the outcome of this procedure. Results: Out of 20 patients in this study 13 were male and 7 were female. The mean age was 31 years (range 20-60 years). The mean surgical time was 75 min (range 60-120 min).The mean fracture union time was 11 weeks (range 10-20 weeks).The shoulder function was excellent to good in 17 cases(85%) and fair in 3 cases(15%) on the UCLA SCORE. Conclusion: Anterior bridge plating using MIPO technique is a safe and a reproducible option for managing humeral shaft fractures. It gives a high rate of union, good functional outcome, less time consuming and has minimal complications.

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Management of humeral shaft fractures with anterior bridge plating-A minimally invasive approach