Co-existing fractures of the proximal humerus and humeral shaft without shoulder dislocation--a rare injury

Abstract

Multiple fractures of the humerus are a rare injury and usually associated with high-energy trauma. We report an unusual injury with co-existing fractures of the proximal humerus and humeral shaft without shoulder dislocation. We discuss our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of a 39-year-old man with co-existing fractures of proximal humerus and ipsilateral humeral shaft with radial nerve deficit. He was successfully managed with open reduction and fixation of the fractures. At follow-up 1 year after injury, he is back at work and has a good range of shoulder movements. The radial nerve injury is showing signs of recovery. In high-energy trauma to the shoulder, unusual fracture patterns with associated neurovascular deficits may be seen and this case report describes our experience with one such rare injury.

Figure 1

Initial plain radiographs (multiple views), left shoulder and arm.

Figure 2

Postoperative plain radiographs, anteroposterior and lateral views.