Humeral diaphyseal aseptic non-unions: an Algorithm of management.
Successful operative treatment of a humeral shaft non-union may be a challenge for the surgeon. Several treatment options have been reported over the years. A systematic review of the literature was performed. Twenty-three retrieved articles (level of evidence IV) fulfilled our inclusion criteria and dealt with aseptic diaphyseal humeral non-union managed by plating, intramedullary nailing and external fixation based on Ilizarov's principles. Despite an obvious superiority of plating in the treatment of humeral shaft non-unions, there is no doubt that intramedullary nailing as well as external fixation devices have a role. An algorithm of management of the humeral shaft non-unions following a rational approach is suggested.
Kontakis
George M
GM
Department of Orthopaedics - Traumatolosy, University of Crete, Greece. kontak@med.uoc.gr
Tosounidis
Theodoros
T
Pagkalos
Joseph
J
D000465:Algorithms; D018483:Diaphyses / Q000293:injuries; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D017102:Fracture Healing / Q000502:physiology*; D005599:Fractures, Ununited / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices / Q000592:standards*; D010346:Patient Care Management / Q000592:standards; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control