Minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis technique applied to humeral shaft fractures: the lateral approach

Objective The surgical technique developed provides a lateral approach based on the identification of three major cutaneous windows in complex fractures. Materials and methods The first one is performed proximally to split the deltoid muscle; the second one, at the middle third, allows to control the sliding of the plate; the third one, at a distal level, is necessary to isolate and protect the radial nerve. We have reviewed this technique in 16 patients with an average age of 52.3. Retrospective review of charts and radiographs immediately after the surgery to latest follow-up was performed (4–16 months). Results Fracture consolidation was evaluated clinically and radiologically in an average of 14.9 weeks. The recovery of shoulder and elbow mobilization resulted to be good. No cases of nerve palsy, sign of superficial or deep infection, neither implant failures nor intolerance to reduction devices has been found. Conclusion We think this could be a valid technique to minimize soft tissue damages in a determined fractures type.