Influence of Timing on Surgical Outcomes for Acute Humeral Shaft Fractures

Figure 1

X-ray radiographs showing delayed bone union. A 70-year-old man sustained a humeral shaft fracture (AO type A1) and underwent an intramedullary nailing eight days after injury. A plain radiograph performed 26 weeks postoperation showed a visible fracture line (a). An 80-year-old woman sustained a humeral shaft fracture (AO type A2) and underwent an intramedullary nailing 11 days after injury. A plain radiograph performed 30 weeks postoperation revealed a visible fracture line and loosening distal screws (b).