Humeral Compression/Distraction Device

The proposed study of humeral shaft fractures in adults will examine outcomes in patients treated with the Humeral Trauma Nail System to treat displaced humeral shaft fractures (displaced OTA code 12A, B, or C), nonunions, or malunions. The device to be studied uses an internal gear system controlled wirelessly by rare earth magnets, which typically offers distraction for lengthening. In the humerus however, during the treatment of acute fractures, this percutaneously inserted nail can also offer compression during the healing process, thereby negating the effect of gravity, which may in turn lead to a faster and more consistent rate of union. Furthermore, in cases of slower healing the dynamic properties of the nail may employ an "accordion technique" (alternating compression-distraction, a feature unique to this implant.