Humeral Shaft Fractures · trauma

A closed humeral shaft fracture presents with a primary radial nerve palsy. Alignment is acceptable for bracing. The usual first plan is:

• AImmediate nerve exploration in the ED before any splint
• BDocument the palsy clearly and treat the fracture closed with functional bracing, observing the nerve
• CAlways nail so the nerve can be wrapped around the implant
• DIgnore the nerve exam if the pulse is present