We evaluated the efficacy and results of minimally invasive anterior plating for humeral shaft fracture.

Twenty-two cases of humeral shaft fracture were reviewed, including 8 cases of type A, 8 of type B and 6 of type C (AO/OTA classification). There were three open fractures. The fracture was fixed with MIPO (minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis) technique under C-arm guide. A locking compression plate was located in anterior aspect of the humerus with at least three screws fixed in each fragment. Radiologic and functional results were evaluated.

In 20 of 22 cases, bony union was achieved with the mean period of 17.5 weeks, including 2 cases of delayed union. There were 2 cases of nonunion, which needed the further operative procedure. Except one case of distal 1/3 fracture, all cases showed satisfactory elbow and shoulder function with the mean Mayo elbow score of 17.4 and mean UCLA shoulder score of 97.3. In complication, there was one case of radial nerve palsy due to improper traction, but it was completely improved after 3 months. Otherwise, there was no complication including infection.

Anterior MIPO for humeral shaft fracture may be another option of operative methods with high union and low complication rate.