COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MANAGEMENT OF HUMERAL DIAPHYSEAL FRACTURES BY DCP PLATE AND IMIL NAIL

AIM: The aim of our study is to compare the results and functional outcome of diaphyseal fractures of the humerus in adults by dynamic compression plate (DCP) and the intramedullary interlocking nail. METHODS AND MATERIAL: The present study was conducted from august 2010 to September 2012. 100 patients with diaphyseal fractures of the humerus were treated with compression plating using dynamic compression plate or with intramedullary interlocking nail. Postoperatively both groups received same type of physiotherapy (mobilization). They were followed up regularly until radiological union. The time taken for radiological union in the two groups was compared. After satisfactory radiological union, the functional outcome was assessed by the "Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand". RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: There was no statistically significant difference in the two groups with respect to age, mode of injury, side of injury and AO type. The average age of patients in our study was 40 years. Males outnumbered the females. Road traffic accident was the most common mode of injury. The right side humerus was involved more often. There was 64AO Type A, 28 AO type B and 4 AO type C fractures. Primary radial nerve palsy was seen in 6 patients, out of which 4 patients recovered completely. When surgery is opted as a choice of treatment, both the modalities of treatment i.e. dynamic compression plating and interlocking nailing are good as far as functional outcome is considered, but considering the less chances of infection and and early union of fracture, we opine that Closed Reduction with IMIL Nailing offers better result than ORIF with Dynamic compression plate. We therefore conclude that in cases where both dynamic compression plating and antegrade interlocking nailing can be done, we would prefer to use CRIF with IMIL Nailing.