Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Retroversion changes, that can be seen after humeral diaphyseal fractures, can play a role on functional results by affecting the mobility and stability of shoulder joint.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the retroversion angles of healed humerus by using computed tomography and to examine the effects of retroversion on functional results.

METHODS

Fifty-two humeral diaphyseal fractures were evaluated retrospectively. The fractured humerus and contralateral humerus retroversion angles of all patients were measured by computed tomography. Constant Shoulder Scoring (COS) was used to evaluate functional results. Mann Whitney-U test, Spearman and Pearson Correlation tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 28 patients included in the study, 14 (50%) were female and 14 (50%) were male. The mean follow-up time was 23.6 months (range 22-26), with a mean age of 45.14 (range 15 to 80). In 15 patients, the retroversion angle was increased and found to be 21.46 degrees in average, and in 13 patients the retroversion angle was decreased (antevert) and was 16.34 degrees in average. Changes in retroversion angles were not significant (p = 0.828). COS values were found to be lower in patients with more retroversion change (p = 0.433).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Wide retroversion intervals can be obtained in humerus diaphyseal fractures by conservative treatment. This has little effect on clinical functional outcomes.