Researching the effect of radial nerve injury in humerus shaft fractures

Abstract

Aim: Radial nerve injury (RNI) is a frequently encountered condition in distal humeral shaft fractures. However, few studies have researched the effect of RNI on fracture healing and extremity functions in patients. In this study, we examined the fracture union time and functional results of the extremity in patients with humerus shaft fracture and RNI. Material and Methods: Thirty patients who underwent osteosynthesis with plaque due to 1/3 distal shaft fracture were included in our clinic between 2012 and 2019. We divided the patients with at least 12 follow-ups with and without RNI into two groups. We compared the union time of the fractures of these groups and their functional results after the fracture healing. We used the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire for upper extremity function measurement. Results: Nine (30%) out of 30 patients had RNI. Fractures of 28 patients (93.3%) were healed without the need for a second operation. Eight (88.8%) out of 9 patients with RNI demonstrated complete healing and 1 patient (11.2%) partial healing. No significant difference was found in patients with and without RNI in terms of fracture union time. DASH scores of patients with RNI were worse than patients without RNI. Discussion: Although isolated RNI developed after humerus fracture does not negatively affect fracture healing rate and time, RNI developing after fracture negatively affects functional results of upper extremity.