A Clinical Study to Compare the Outcome of Locking Compression Plate versus Intramedullary Nail for Humerus Fracture

Abstract

Background: With the dramatic success of intramedullary fixation of fracture of the Femur and Tibia there was speculation the intramedullary nailing (IM) is more appropriate for humeral diaphyseal fracture than locking compression plating. Aim: The aim of our study was to compare the two and see the more optimum method to treat them. Outcome was compared in term of time to achieve union, rate of infection and functional outcome (DASH score). Methods: A total of 40 patient were chosen after informed consent and randomly picked for either nailing / plating. These were patients who met him criterion for operative interventions. 4 patient who did not give informed consent were not included. Results: Average union time was 12.4 weeks IMN V/S 15 weeks in plating group. Rate of infection was none IMN versus PLT. Complication of surgery was not seen in any group like radial nerve palsy. Functional outcome was excellent in both groups with complete patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Both the procedures are equally good and outcome depend upon expertise of surgeon, infrastructure, and proper schooling of patient.