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Operative vs nonoperative treatment of diaphyseal humerus fractures yielded similar union rates
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Recently published results showed patients with closed diaphyseal humerus fractures treated either operatively or nonoperatively experienced comparable union rates, time to union and complication rates.
Researchers categorized 71 patients with closed diaphyseal humerus fractures and injury severity scores of 17 or greater to either operative treatment or nonoperative treatment. Patients in the operative group were treated with either open reduction and internal fixation with plate osteosynthesis or intramedullary nailing, while patients in the nonoperative group were treated with a coaptation splint followed by functional bracing, according to researchers.
Researchers identified union as the primary outcome and used time to union, time to release to weight-bearing and complications other than nonunion as secondary outcomes.
Results showed no statistical differences between the operative and nonoperative groups when looking at age, injury severity score or fracture type. Researchers noted the operative group had a statistically higher incidence of associated orthopedic injury and lower extremity injury. Operative and nonoperative groups had no differences in union rates, time to union or complication rates. However, researchers found the operative group had a shorter time to release to weight-bearing by 3 weeks. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosures: Dielwart reports no relevant financial disclosures. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.
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