MINIMALLY INVASIVE FRACTURE FIXATION FOR SURGICAL NECK FRACTURE OF THE HUMERUS

Surgical neck fractures of the humerus are common in older adults, especially postmenopausal women. They often result from falls or direct impact to the shoulder and may lead to complications such as axillary nerve injury, brachial artery damage, deltoid paralysis, or restricted shoulder mobility. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to prevent long-term disability.

Minimally Invasive Fracture Fixation For Surgical Neck Fracture Of The Humerus

On March 18, 2024, the Orthopedics & Traumatology Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital successfully performed a minimally invasive fracture fixation surgery on a 67-year-old female patient, Ms. N.T.H. (from Tay Ninh), who had sustained a surgical neck fracture of the humerus.

Two days prior to hospitalization, the patient was involved in a traffic accident, falling hard on her left shoulder and back. Initially treated with a shoulder brace, she continued to experience severe pain and limited shoulder movement. Upon admission, imaging (X-ray and CT scan) revealed a comminuted fracture of the proximal humerus.

Dr. Vi Van Duong, Specialist Level I – Orthopedics & Traumatology Department, shared:

“With the support of advanced technologies such as the C-arm fluoroscopy system, orthopedic traction table, and modern implants, we now regularly perform advanced trauma techniques that bring real benefits to patients”.

For Ms. H., the team opted for minimally invasive fracture fixation, a technique with multiple advantages over traditional open surgery – Shorter surgical time; less intraoperative pain and blood loss; smaller incisions with better cosmetic outcomes; and faster postoperative recovery.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Vo Van Man, Specialist Level II, and Dr. Vi Van Duong, Specialist Level I, using a combination of C-arm imaging, orthopedic traction table, and the latest generation of plates and screws. The procedure lasted about one hour and was a success.

Just one day after surgery, the patient was alert, psychologically stable, and able to move her left shoulder gently. Early rehabilitation and concurrent internal medicine support were initiated. After five days, she was discharged and instructed to continue physical therapy at home.

At the two-week follow-up, the surgical site had healed well, the sutures were removed, and the patient demonstrated good shoulder mobility.

Minimally Invasive Trauma Surgery: A Game Changer in Orthopedics

In recent years, Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital has applied minimally invasive trauma techniques to shoulder, forearm, and lower limb fractures, achieving consistently positive outcomes. These procedures have helped patients recover faster, return to daily activities sooner, and significantly improve quality of life.

Dr. Duong also emphasized that fractures caused by traffic or work-related accidents often result in nerve damage and severe pain. Timely first aid and professional surgical intervention at a specialized hospital are critical to avoid long-term consequences.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital accepts both public health insurance and private health insurance.