Humerus Fracture Sites & Neurovascular Correlations

Flashcards covering humerus fracture sites, the associated nerves and arteries at risk, and clinical correlations.

Surgical Neck fracture

Most common fracture location in elderly falls; risks Axillary nerve and Posterior circumflex humeral artery. Correlates with deltoid weakness (loss of abduction >15°) and sensory loss over the lateral shoulder.

Greater Tubercle fracture

Involves avulsion or direct trauma of the greater tubercle; may affect the Suprascapular nerve (depending on extension). Correlates with weakness of supraspinatus/infraspinatus and external rotation deficits.

Mid-shaft fracture

Humeral mid-shaft fracture, often spiral or transverse from torsion; risks Radial nerve and Deep brachial artery (profunda brachii). Correlates with wrist drop, loss of extensors, and sensory loss over the dorsum of the hand.

Supracondylar (Distal humerus) fracture

Fracture just above the condyles; common in children. Structures at risk: Median nerve (most common) and Brachial artery. Correlates with Ape hand and risk of ischemic Volkmann’s contracture.

Medial Epicondyle fracture

Avulsion of the medial epicondyle (seen in throwing or valgus stress); commonly injures the Ulnar nerve. Correlates with claw hand and sensory loss in the medial 1½ fingers.

Comminuted fracture

High-energy trauma causing multiple fragments; nerve entrapment risk higher depending on location. Often unstable and may require fixation.

Transverse fracture

Straight horizontal fracture along any part of the humerus