Results of two methods, conventional open reduction-internal plating and minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis (MIPO), in the treatment of mid-distal humeral shaft fractures were compared. Thirty-three patients were retrospectively analysed and divided into two groups. Group A (n=17) patients were treated by MIPO and group B (n=16) by conventional plating. The mean operation time in group A was 92.35±57.68 minutes and 103.12±31.08 minutes in group B (P=0.513). Iatrogenic radial nerve palsy in group A was 0% (0/17) and 31.3% in group B (5/16 (P=0.012). The mean fracture union time in group A was 15.29±4.01 weeks (range 8-24 weeks), and 21.25±13.67 weeks (range 10-58 weeks) in group B (P=0.095). The mean UCLA end-result score in group A was 34.76±0.56 points (range 33-35), and 34.38± 1.41 points (range 30-35) in group B (P=0.299). The mean MEPI in group A was 99.41±2.43 points (range 90-100) and 99.69±1.25 points (range 95-100) in group B (P= 0.687). When compared to the conventional plating techniques, MIPO offers advantages in terms of reduced incidence of iatrogenic radial nerve palsies and accelerated fracture union and a similar functional outcome with respect to shoulder and elbow function.

Closed reduction and internal fixation of middle or distal third humeral shaft fractures using MIPO is a safe and effective surgical treatment method and an alternative option to open techniques.

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