Introduction: Fractures of the humeral shaft in the elderly osteoporotic patients represent a challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon with no ideal method of treatment and scarce mentions in literature. We present results of our case series of patients treated by open reduction and internal fixation with locked plates.
Methods: Eleven patients with osteoporotic fractures of the shaft of the humerus have been included in this study. Their average age was 67.6 (range 45-96) years. All patients were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using a locked plate providing angular stable fixation. Follow up averaged 24 (range 18-30) weeks. Assessment was done by serial radiographs at six weeks intervals to note radiographic signs of union and by examining range of motion at shoulder and elbow joints.