Acta Ortopédica Brasileira · Published 2026-01-01 · DOI 10.1590/1413-785220263401e296589
ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate demographic aspects, risk factors, trauma mechanisms, and therapeutic outcomes in humeral shaft nonunion. Methods: Retrospective analyzing of 14 patients treated between 2011 and 2024 at a quaternary hospital. Evaluating Demographic data, fracture characteristics, treatments, and outcomes were descriptively assessed. Results: The average patient's age was 51 years. Half of the patients were involved in domestic accidents, and half in traffic accidents. 58% of fractures occurred in the middle third of the shaft, and 93% were classified as atrophic nonunions. Healing failure was linked to lack of bone contact, implant loosening, and infection. After definitive treatment, 71% achieved union, 21% remained in nonunion. Bone grafting combined with compression was associated with superior outcomes. Conclusion: Trauma mechanism, AO classification, and comorbidities were not significant predictors of healing. Grafting associated with compression was crucial for union achievement. Level of Evidence IV; Case series.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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