Introduction: Humeral fractures are the second common long bone fractures of the neonatal period after clavicle. Most cases of birth-related humerus fracture are reported during a vaginal breech delivery. The cesarean section does not eliminate the risk of long bone fractures. A humerus fracture is less common but still can happen due to forceful maneuvers like traction during cesarean which can go unnoticed to operating obstetrician or misinterpreted as brachial plexus injury by an inexperienced orthopedic surgeon.
Case Report: We received a call from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a 2-day-old 2.4 kg male baby delivered to primigravida at 37 weeks by elective cesarean for transverse lie, for not moving his right upper limb. On examination by orthopedic surgeon, swelling, contusion, crepitus, and abnormal mobility at the right arm were noticed. Gentle manipulation made the neonate cry. Range of movements (ROMs) of wrist, elbow, and hand were within normal limit without any neurovascular deficit. Hence, the initial diagnosis of brachial plexus injury/Erb’s palsy was revised. X-ray of the right upper limb was ordered which showed an isolated mid-shaft humerus bicortical fracture. A high above elbow slab was applied with an arms chest bandage for a week and the baby was discharged with proper advice to the mother to follow-up on the next week.
Conclusion: Obstetricians and pediatricians should remain vigilant for the rare occurrence of humerus fracture during cesarean so that they are not missed and managed timely to prevent future disability and deformity.
Keywords: Humerus, neonate, long bone, fractures, brachial plexus injury.
This study was undertaken to determine the current level of resuscitation skills amongst staff in the Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital of Wales, and to identify ways of improving it. Questionnaires, which were modified according to expected level of expertise, were distributed to all staff members. 66% of the staff responded. 75% had formal resuscitation training, but the validation of this training had lapsed in 66%. 11% were aware of the location of all the resuscitation equipment in the department. Only 10% were aware of the new Resuscitation Council guidelines (changed in April 2006) regarding chest compression to ventilation ratio and hand position during chest compression. Only 57% of the medical staff and radiographers could identify and manage an anaphylactic reaction. Only 55% of medical staff could identify and manage a pneumothorax; and correctly measure and insert an oropharyngeal airway. 35% could use a defibrillator, but only 6% were aware of the changes to the guidelines for use of this equipment. Only one staff member was aware of the all the relevant changes in the guidelines. There is a shortfall of resuscitation skills in the radiology department and a responsibility on all radiology staff to update their resuscitation skills.
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