[Ilizarov augmentation in the treatment of humeral shaft nonunions developing after failed intramedullary nailing]

Eklem Hastalik Cerrahisi. 2010 Dec;21(3):142-6.
[Article in Turkish]

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, we presented our experience with Ilizarov augmentation in the treatment of patients with humeral shaft nonunion following failed intramedullary nail fixation.

Patients and methods: Seven patients (4 females, 3 males; mean age 47 years; range 32 to 62 years) with established humeral nonunions following antegrade intramedullary nailing were evaluated retrospectively. In all patients an Ilizarov fixator was applied over the nail as a closed procedure. The average period between the first injury and fixator application was 12.2 months (range 8 to 21). The patients were assessed radiologically with respect to bony union at follow-up. Constant scoring was used to assess shoulder function in the clinical evaluation.

Results: All nonunions healed without a major complication. Five patients had superficial pin tract infections which responded well to antibiotic treatment. The follow-up average Constant score was 78.

Conclusion: Ilizarov external fixation is an alternative and effective method in the treatment of aseptic humeral shaft nonunion following failed intramedullary nailing.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation / adverse effects*
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / adverse effects*
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / methods
  • Fracture Healing
  • Fractures, Ununited / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Humeral Fractures / surgery*
  • Ilizarov Technique / adverse effects
  • Ilizarov Technique / statistics & numerical data*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged