Humerus fracture (peds)

Proximal Fracture

Background

  • Occurs predominantly during adolescence
  • Proximal fractures classified using the Neer classification system based on number of component fractures

Treatment

  • Depends on the age of the child and degree of displacement
    • Ortho consult is needed to determine the best approach

Disposition

  • Slightly displaced fx: Sling and ortho f/u
  • Displaced >30 degrees: may need closed reduction
Prox humerus fracture.jpeg

Diaphysis Fracture

Background

  • Uncommon
    • Consider abuse
    • Direct trauma: transverse fx
    • Violent rotation: spiral fx
  • Fracture fragment may injure radial nerve
    • Assess wrist extensors/supinators
    • Sensation of dorsoradial hand, thumb, and second digits

Treatment

  • Long-arm plaster splint

Disposition

  • Ortho f/u

See Also

Supracondylar Fracture

Source

  • Tintinalli
  • Harwood Nuss
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