Improving Humeral Shaft Fracture Management: Implementation of a New Clinical Pathway

Description

The presentation led by Joanne McKay discusses a new management pathway for midshaft humeral fractures at Derby, particularly aimed at elderly patients. It outlines the treatment process starting from presentation at the fracture clinic through to the follow-up care and evaluation strategies. The pathway incorporates the RUSHU scoring system to predict the likelihood of non-union based on X-ray assessments and fracture mobility. It emphasizes the importance of timely decision-making, reducing appointments and X-ray usage while improving patient care. Results indicate a significant decrease in X-ray needs and clinic appointments, with improved adherence to assessing patient conditions at six weeks. Further plans to audit the pathway's efficiency and include it in the training for junior doctors were mentioned, along with a consideration for patient-reported outcomes in future studies.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221717

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