Humerus with sub-capital unreduced fracture
Object numberGC.10228
TitleHumerus with sub-capital unreduced fracture
DescriptionThe left humerus of an adult male, showing fractures of the surgical neck and mid-shaft with implication of the radial nerve.
The male aged 77 was injured as the result of a fall, suffering a double fracture of the left humerus at the middle of the shaft and in the region of the surgical neck. The limb was put up in plaster but due to swelling, pain and blistering, the plaster was removed. On the 2nd day a Jones’ Arm Splint was substituted but on account of restlessness and mental confusion this too had to be abandoned and he was treated with a sling and binder. Two months later he was found to have wrist drop. A few days later the patient died suddenly and post mortem revealed severe sclerosis of the coronary arteries.
The upper arm has been dissected to show the radial nerve and the site of fracture of the shaft of the humerus. The line of fracture is oblique from above downwards and medially, and there is some over-riding. The bone fragments are soundly united by callus which is still in excess and in the process of being remodelled. The radial nerve as it courses obliquely across the site of fracture is firmly embedded in a shallow groove in the callus. The nerve appears to be intact.
The upper fracture is likewise soundly united with slight medial angulation. The articular surfaces of the head and distal extremity show thinning of the cartilage, and areas, particularly at the periphery of the head, where the cartilage is absent.
Object nameBONE, humerus
Object categoryAnatomical, specimen
Dimensions
- Height: 30 cm
Width: 15 cm
Depth: 10 cm