Early Fixation for Diaphyseal Humeral Shaft Fractures in the Elderly Patients

Launched by FRASER ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH SOCIETY · Sep 18, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether early surgery to fix broken upper arm bones (called humeral shaft fractures) in older adults, aged 65 and older, can help them recover better than the usual treatment, which often involves rest and non-surgical care. The main goal is to see if surgery can improve how well patients can use their arms and how they feel mentally after their injuries.

To join this trial, participants must have a specific type of arm fracture and be able to walk, even if they use aids like canes or walkers. However, those with certain complications, such as other serious injuries or conditions that affect their ability to follow up on their treatment, may not be eligible. If someone participates, they can expect to receive either the surgical treatment or standard care and will be monitored to see how well they recover over time. This study is currently looking for participants, and it's important for anyone considering joining to talk with their doctor about what this trial involves.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Diaphyseal humeral shaft fracture (as defined as superior border of insertion of pectoralis major proximally, to the distal diaphysis)
• • 2. Ambulatory (with or without the use of walking aides)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Fractures with intra-articular extension
• • 2. Ipsilateral upper extremity injury
• • 3. Patients with vascular injury
• • 4. Brachial plexus injury
• • 5. Compartment syndrome
• • 6. Pathological fractures
• • 7. Open fractures
• • 8. Periprosthetic fracture
• • 9. BMI \>40
• • 10. Dementia or cognitive impairment that inhibits the collection of outcome measures
• • 11. Likely problems, in the judgement of the investigator, with maintaining follow-up (i.e. patients with no fixed address, not mentally competent to give consent, intellectually challenged, patients without adequate support, etc.)
• • 12. Inability to provide informed consent