Joe A Shaw PA-C - 1/16/2010
Question
humerus
I have broken my left humerus shaft by arm wrestling. It's been almost a month and my arm has been feeling better. Although, the area where it's broken has a small gap and still has a way to go. My doctor said to give it a few more weeks to see how it heals. It wasn't reduced, I assume it wasn't too bad. I want to avoid surgery if possible; does it have to be a perfect alignment for it to heal properly? How far does the bone gap have to be before considering surgery?
AnswerIt doesn't have to be in perfect alignment and you have good enough alingment from the one view I can see. The problem may be that it is a multiple fracture which is harder to heal than just a single break. You should see some "fluff" or callus formation (calcium)that shows up on the xray after a few weeks. I would go back to your orthopedist in a couple of weeks and they will retake xrays and if not healing you may need surgery (bone plate and screws) It will take time but you should ultimaley do fine.
