Management of Radial Nerve Palsy Associated with Humeral Shaft Fractures by Closed Interlocking Intrameduallary Nail

Purpose: The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the results of immediate radial nerve palsy associated with closed humeral shaft fractures treated by the closed interlocking intramedullary nail without radial nerve exploration. Methods: Eighteen patients suffered from immediate radial nerve palsy associated with closed humeral shaft fractures treated by closed interlocking intramedullary nail, without exploration of the radial nerve. Results: Patients were followed up for a mean of 18 months (range from 12 to 24 months). All the cases had united in a good alignment within 12 weeks. Full clinical and electrodiagnostic radial nerve recovery as regarding the range of shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand movements occurred at 6 months examination. Conclusion: Closed interlocking nailing for immediate radial nerve palsy associated with closed humeral shaft fractures, provides immediate stability and can be done with a closed technique, brief operative time and minimum violation to the radial nerve, with early return of optimal extremity function.