Distal humeral fracture, Orthopedics FAQ

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Understanding the Need for Hardware Removal After Arm Fracture Surgery

Removal of metal screws issue Hello Doctor, I had surgery on October 27th of last year following a car accident, primarily for a right distal humeral fracture. The current condition, as shown in the photos [link], has improved with ongoing rehabilitation, but I still experience s...


Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Each person's recovery varies. Whether or when to remove it should be discussed with your attending physician. Generally, a hospital stay of about 3 to 4 days is required post-surgery, and it is advisable to avoid vigorous exercise for at least 3 months. Thank you.

[Read More] Understanding the Need for Hardware Removal After Arm Fracture Surgery


Recovery Timeline and Treatment for Distal Humerus Fracture with Ulnar Nerve Injury

Distal humeral fracture with ulnar nerve injury? In late August, I suffered a distal humeral fracture and ulnar nerve injury due to a car accident, and I have already undergone surgery. However, to this day, my ring finger, little finger, and the outer part of my palm are still s...


Dr. Shen Boquan Reply:
Hello, the numbness in your ring and little fingers after a remote humeral fracture surgery is likely due to ulnar nerve neuropathy. During the surgery, we need to retract the ulnar nerve to perform fracture reduction and plate fixation. If your physician confirms that the ulnar ...

[Read More] Recovery Timeline and Treatment for Distal Humerus Fracture with Ulnar Nerve Injury


Concerns About Titanium Intramedullary Nail Removal After Humerus Fracture

Nail problems I have a distal humeral fracture that was stabilized with a titanium intramedullary nail. I sometimes feel a foreign body sensation, which is quite uncomfortable, and it has affected the flexibility and range of motion of my arm. I hope to have the intramedullary na...


Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: If this is your recent X-ray, the removal is not an option yet since your bone has not fully healed. If you wish to have it removed later, as you mentioned, it will indeed be technically more challenging due to the intramedullary nail being more embedded, but it is certain...

[Read More] Concerns About Titanium Intramedullary Nail Removal After Humerus Fracture


Post-Surgery Challenges After Distal Humerus Fracture: Recovery Insights

Postoperative issues following distal humeral fracture surgery? Hello Doctor, I am here to inquire again about my car accident on June 2nd of this year, which resulted in a distal humeral fracture in my left arm. On June 3rd, I underwent surgery where two metal plates and eight s...


Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Apply heat or use pain relievers. 2. Surgical implantation of a steel plate for distal humeral fracture, as it is very close to the radial nerve, should not be removed unless absolutely necessary. 3. Activities can be resumed after bone healing. 4. Weight should be gradually i...

[Read More] Post-Surgery Challenges After Distal Humerus Fracture: Recovery Insights


Understanding Nerve Injury Risks and Rehabilitation After Orthopedic Surgery

Nerve injury and rehabilitation issues? Hello, I fractured my left humerus around October of the year before last and had a steel plate inserted. The doctor suggested that after about a year of stability, I could undergo surgery to remove it. I read that there is a risk of nerve ...


Dr. Hong Ximing Reply:
Hello: A distal humeral fracture should have stabilized and healed after one year. The removal of the plates and screws should be relatively straightforward, but care must be taken to avoid nerve injury. It is recommended to protect the area for 4-6 weeks postoperatively, but thi...

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Injury Risks and Rehabilitation After Orthopedic Surgery


Understanding Persistent Elbow Deformity After Open Humerus Fracture Surgery

Open fracture of the distal humerus with inability to fully extend the arm? On August 10, 2013, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in an open fracture of the humerus. The first surgery was very successful, and I was able to extend my arm straight. However, three month...


Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Distal humeral fractures near the elbow joint can sometimes affect the range of motion of the elbow. Generally, immobilization of the elbow should not exceed six weeks, as prolonged immobilization can lead to contractures, making it difficult to fully extend the elbow. Under norm...

[Read More] Understanding Persistent Elbow Deformity After Open Humerus Fracture Surgery


Post-Surgery Rehabilitation Tips for Distal Humerus Fracture Recovery

I would like to consult a doctor regarding rehabilitation after surgery for a distal humeral fracture. Thank you very much? Hello Dr. Li, I suffered a distal humeral fracture due to a fall about two weeks ago. After surgery, I had an internal fixation with a steel plate and six s...


Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the ancient saying "It takes a hundred days to heal a muscle or bone injury" means that it takes at least a hundred days for a fracture or muscle strain to heal. Even with modern medical advancements, the healing of fractures or reco...

[Read More] Post-Surgery Rehabilitation Tips for Distal Humerus Fracture Recovery