Risk Factors of Broadbent et al for Nonunion of a Diaphyseal Fracture of the Humerus

 

Patient selection: diaphyseal fracture of the humerus

 

Risk factors for fracture nonunion:

(1) fracture in the proximal third

(2) Neer score < 45 at 12 weeks after the fracture (out of 100, with the score reflecting functional capacity)

 

where:

• The Neer score is described in Chapter 20.

 

A patient with risk factors for nonunion is also at increased risk for poor shoulder function, especially if the patient is older.