Simple and complex fractures of the humerus : a guide to assessment and treatment

The treatment of humeral fractures is a complex issue and the source of considerable controversy. In the case of fractures of the proximal humerus, early range of motion is the main aim of treatment. If a fracture modifies the anatomy or function of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints, the surgeon must adhere meticulously to treatment principles in order to ensure a satisfactory outcome. Humeral shaft fractures are frequent, accounting for 1% to 3% of all fractures in adults; while excellent functional results have been reported with nonoperative management, open reduction and internal fixation is preferred in specific clinical settings. In contrast, intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus are frequently complex and full functional recovery is difficult to achieve. This volume clearly explains the concepts that are central to an understanding of humeral fractures from the proximal to the distal tip. Indications for different forms of treatment, including nonsurgical, are presented in detail, and all of the commonly used fixation techniques are described with the help of high-quality illustrations. Further important aspects such as complications, rehabilitation, and treatment of sequelae are also fully considered. This book will be an invaluable and comprehensive aid for all surgeons who treat humeral fractures. Front Matter....Pages i-xix Front Matter....Pages 1-1 Surgical Main Anatomy of the Shoulder....Pages 3-10 Proximal Humerus Fractures: Understanding and Managing the Fracture....Pages 11-23 Operating Theater Setup....Pages 25-35 Closed Reduction Principles....Pages 37-43 Proximal Humerus: Surgical Approaches....Pages 45-58 Percutaneous Fixation: When and How....Pages 59-73 ORIF in Three-/Four-Part Fractures....Pages 75-89 Intramedullary Nail for Proximal Humerus Fractures: An Old Concept Revisited....Pages 91-112 Anatomic Shoulder Arthroplasty for Fracture: Indications and Technique....Pages 113-122 Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Fracture: Indications and Technique....Pages 123-130 Surgical Neck Fracture....Pages 131-141 The Tuberosities....Pages 143-155 Malunion of Humeral Tuberosity Fractures....Pages 157-162 Nerve Injuries in Proximal Humeral Fractures....Pages 163-174 Fracture-Dislocations....Pages 175-185 Treatment of the Sequelae....Pages 187-200 Conservative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures: Prognostic Factors and Outcome....Pages 201-209 Front Matter....Pages 211-211 The Diaphysis: Nonsurgical Treatment....Pages 213-220 Radial Palsy and Humerus Fractures....Pages 221-230 Internal Fixation of Diaphyseal Humeral Fractures: Plate or Intramedullary Nail?....Pages 231-240 Front Matter....Pages 211-211 Humeral Shaft Fractures and External Fixator....Pages 241-248 Periprosthetic Fractures....Pages 249-257 Front Matter....Pages 259-259 Distal Humerus: Surgical Anatomy....Pages 261-268 Surgical Approaches Based on Fracture Patterns....Pages 269-277 Principles of Fixation for Distal Humerus Fractures....Pages 279-292 Elbow Prosthesis in Distal Humeral Fractures....Pages 293-301 External Fixation: When and How....Pages 303-311 The Malunion and Nonunion of Distal Humerus Fractures....Pages 313-326 Terrible Triad....Pages 327-337 Filippo Castoldi, Davide Blonna, Marco Assom, Editors. Includes Bibliographical References. Mode Of Access: World Wide Web.