Humerus Fracture
Have you fallen on your arm or had a violent impact and are experiencing intense pain with inability to move your upper limb? Humerus fracture is a traumatic injury that can affect the diaphysis (central part) or the proximal end (near the shoulder) of the arm bone. In Tunisia, experienced orthopedists ensure the treatment of humerus fractures with modern techniques (plate and screws, nailing) at competitive prices.
Humerus Fracture: What is it?
Humerus fracture is a break in the arm bone, the humerus, which connects the shoulder to the elbow. Fractures can occur at different levels:
- Diaphyseal fracture: fracture of the central part of the humerus (shaft).
- Humeral head fracture: fracture of the proximal end (near the shoulder).
- Supracondylar fracture: fracture of the lower end (near the elbow).
Humerus fractures often occur following a fall on the arm, a sports accident or direct trauma. They are more common in elderly people (osteoporosis) and athletes (contact sports).
Types of Humerus Fractures
Humerus fractures are classified according to their location and complexity. A simple diaphyseal fracture is clean without comminution. A comminuted diaphyseal fracture has multiple fragments. Humeral head fracture affects the head or neck. A supracondylar fracture is at the lower end. A fracture with radial nerve injury is a common complication.
Causes of Humerus Fracture
Humerus fractures have several causes. A fall on the arm or shoulder is the most common cause. A sports accident can cause direct impact or torsion. A road traffic accident is a cause of violent trauma. A direct blow to the arm is also a cause. Osteoporosis weakens bones in elderly people. Finally, a bone pathology such as a tumor may lead to it.
Symptoms of Humerus Fracture
A humerus fracture manifests with characteristic symptoms. Intense pain is localized to the arm. Significant swelling appears quickly. Bruising forms around the arm. Inability to move the arm is common. Deformity is visible in case of displaced fracture. Crepitus may be felt. Wrist drop indicates radial nerve injury.
Diagnosis of Humerus Fracture
Diagnosis of a humerus fracture is based on several examinations. Clinical examination includes inspection and palpation. X-rays from front and side of the arm are performed. CT scan is used for complex fractures. MRI may look for associated injuries. Radial nerve function test is important.
Treatment of Humerus Fracture
Treatment depends on the type of fracture, its stability and the degree of displacement.
1. Orthopedic Treatment (non-surgical)
Conservative treatment is indicated for simple and stable fractures. Immobilization with a shoulder immobilizer is maintained for 3 to 6 weeks. Radiological monitoring is provided with checks at 15 days and 1 month. This approach is reserved for non-displaced fractures.
2. Surgical Treatment (osteosynthesis)
Humerus surgery is indicated for displaced, unstable or complex fractures. It consists of osteosynthesis with plate and screws. Intramedullary nailing may be performed. External fixator is used for open fractures. The procedure is under general or locoregional anesthesia. It lasts 1 to 2 hours. Hospitalization is 2 to 4 days.
Specific Surgical Techniques
Surgical options for humerus fractures are varied. Plate and screw osteosynthesis is the reference technique. Locked intramedullary nailing is another option. Percutaneous osteosynthesis is used for minimally displaced fractures. Shoulder prosthesis is indicated for complex fractures in elderly patients.
Post-Operative Course and Recovery
Recovery after a humerus fracture is well codified. Immobilization with a shoulder immobilizer is maintained for 3 to 6 weeks. Moderate pain is controlled with painkillers. Rehabilitation by physiotherapy begins after splint removal. Mobilization is progressive for the shoulder, elbow and wrist. Full recovery occurs in 3 to 6 months.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Rehabilitation after a humerus fracture is essential. It includes shoulder mobilization with pendulum exercises. Mobilization of the elbow and wrist is also performed. Muscle strengthening of biceps, triceps and deltoid is performed. Finally, proprioceptive rehabilitation allows recovery of upper limb function.
Risks and Complications
Several complications may occur after a humerus fracture. Infection is rare and prevented by antibiotic prophylaxis. Minimal bleeding resolves spontaneously. Radial nerve injury is common in diaphyseal fractures. Joint stiffness of the shoulder or elbow is possible. Non-union is a rare healing defect. Risk of post-traumatic arthritis exists in the long term.
Prices for Humerus Fracture Treatment in Tunisia
Tunisia offers very competitive prices for humerus fracture treatment. An orthopedic consultation costs between €80 and €120. Immobilization with a splint or cast costs from €150 to €300. Plate and screw osteosynthesis is offered from €1,500 to €2,500. Intramedullary nailing is available from €2,000 to €3,000. Shoulder prosthesis costs from €3,500 to €5,000. A rehabilitation package of 10 physiotherapy sessions is offered from €300 to €600.
Frequently Asked Questions about Humerus Fracture
1How long is the hospital stay for a humerus fracture in Tunisia?
Hospitalization is generally 2 to 4 days for a fracture requiring osteosynthesis. For simple fractures treated by immobilization, a 24-hour hospital stay may be sufficient. Duration depends on the complexity of the fracture.
2When can you move the arm after a humerus fracture?
Immobilization lasts 3 to 6 weeks depending on the type of fracture. After removal of the cast or splint, rehabilitation is started to progressively restore mobility. Full recovery of elbow and shoulder mobility takes 2 to 4 months.
3What are the risks of humerus fracture surgery?
Risks are low and include: infection, bleeding, nerve damage (radial nerve), joint stiffness (shoulder, elbow), non-union, and anesthesia-related complications.
4Can a humerus fracture cause radial nerve palsy?
Yes, the radial nerve runs around the humerus and can be damaged by the fracture or during surgery. Radial nerve palsy manifests as wrist drop (drooping hand). In most cases, recovery is spontaneous within a few months.
5When can you return to sports after a humerus fracture?
Return to sports depends on the type of fracture and the activity practiced. For low-impact sports, return is possible after 3 months. For contact or throwing sports (tennis, handball), wait 4 to 6 months. Complete rehabilitation is essential.
6What is the difference between a diaphyseal fracture and a humeral head fracture?
A diaphyseal fracture affects the central part of the humerus. A humeral head fracture (or proximal end fracture) affects the upper part of the humerus, near the shoulder. Treatments and complications differ according to location.
7Should osteosynthesis hardware (plate, screws, nail) be removed?
Removal of osteosynthesis hardware is optional and depends on symptoms. It is generally performed 12 to 18 months after surgery if the hardware is uncomfortable (pain, movement limitation). Removal is a short surgical procedure under local or general anesthesia.
Why Choose Tunisia for Humerus Fracture Treatment?
Our orthopedists are experienced, trained in Europe and specialized in upper limb traumatology. They use modern techniques such as plate and screw osteosynthesis. Our prices are competitive, 40 to 60% cheaper than in Europe. Care is rapid with appointments within 48 hours. Personalized follow-up is provided pre and post-operatively.
In Conclusion
Humerus fracture is a painful injury but perfectly treatable by orthopedic or surgical methods. In Tunisia, Tunisie Esthetic offers you quality care, performed by experienced orthopedists, with modern techniques (plate and screws, nailing) and competitive prices. Do not hesitate to contact us for a personalized and free quote.