CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF ANTERIOR BRIDGE PLATING FOR HUMERUS SHAFT FRACTURES BY MINIMAL INVASIVE TECHNIQUE

Near normal acceptable reduction and rigid stable fixation has its biological advantage as compare to absolute anatomical reduction with compromising soft tissue and vascularity. Biological fixation of fractures with soft tissue preservation and near acceptable reduction is becoming a more acceptable entity. However it is to be evaluated. For a satisfactorily outcome only union is not the only requirement but early and acceptable functional usage of the limb is the goal. Therefore concept of biological fixation was developed over a stable mechanical fixation. This has evolved the development and improvement in the techniques of biological fracture fixation and stabilization systems. From conservative cast and braces to internal fixation with intramedullary interlocking nailing, ORIF with plate and screw. Treatment of humeral fracture has evolved a lot with their complications. Studies are still going on to prove superiority of one over another. Minimally invasive technique for humerus shaft fracture has shown promising results recently. The present study was planned in Department of Orthopaedic, Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), Muzaffarpur, Bihar from jan 2017 to Oct 2017. Total 10 cases with fractures of humerus shaft were treated with Minimum invasive Anterior Bridge plating techniques were evaluated in the present study. The data generated from the present study concludes that though the technique is very promising, it has a steep learning curve involved. The greatest advantage is minimally invasive, minimal soft tissue stripping, smaller incisions, minimal blood loss, shorter operative time and early rehabilitation. In conclusion anterior bridge plating (ABP) is very good technique in treating midshaft humeral fractures with minimal soft tissue dissection, smaller scars, and early return to overhead activities. Keywords: Anterior bridge plate, humerus fracture, minimal invasive technique, minimal invasive procedure, etc.