Orthonotes
Orthonotes
by the.bonestories
v3.0 Fusion
v3.0 Fusion
trauma topic hub

Shaft Humerus — Radial Nerve Palsy

Primary neurapraxia occurs in ~10–15% closed fractures; most recover spontaneously by 3–4 months. Immediate exploration for open fractures, vascular injury, high‑energy with suspected transection, or secondary palsy after manipulation/fixation. Expectant management: splint, serial exams/EMG at 6–12 weeks; consider exploration if no recovery by 3–4 months. Fixation choices: functional bracing vs ORIF/IM nailing based on pattern and patient factors.

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Primary neurapraxia occurs in ~10–15% closed fractures; most recover spontaneously by 3–4 months. Immediate exploration for open fractures, vascular injury, high‑energy with suspected transection, or secondary palsy after manipulation/fixation. Expectant management: splint, serial exams/EMG at 6–12 weeks; consider exploration if no recovery by 3–4 months. Fixation choices: functional bracing vs ORIF/IM nailing based on pattern and patient factors.
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Question 1

What is the most common nerve injury associated with humeral shaft fractures?

Question 2

What is the typical recovery timeline for primary neurapraxia associated with radial nerve palsy following a humeral shaft fracture?

Question 3

In which location of the humeral shaft is the risk of radial nerve injury the highest?

Question 4

Which of the following is an indication for immediate surgical exploration in the context of radial nerve palsy?

Question 5

What is the hallmark clinical sign of radial nerve palsy?

Question 6

Which management strategy is typically employed for most humeral shaft fractures?

Question 7

What is the recommended time frame for conducting electromyography (EMG) if radial nerve palsy persists?

Question 8

What is the most common mechanism of injury leading to radial nerve palsy in humeral shaft fractures?

Question 9

What is the expected management for a patient with an open humeral shaft fracture and radial nerve palsy?

Question 10

Which of the following complications is NOT commonly associated with radial nerve palsy after humeral shaft fractures?