Early surgical fixation for arm fractures in elderly patients
Early Fixation for Diaphyseal Humeral Shaft Fractures in the Elderly Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Fraser Orthopaedic Research Society · NCT06605482
This study tests if early surgery for arm fractures helps older patients feel and function better compared to those who only get standard care.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 94 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Fraser Orthopaedic Research Society (network) |
| Locations | 1 site (New Westminster, British Columbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06605482 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effects of early surgical fixation on functional and psychological outcomes in elderly patients aged 65 and older who have suffered a humeral shaft fracture. It is a prospective cohort study that will follow participants for one year post-treatment to assess their recovery compared to those receiving standard non-operative management. The study aims to determine if early intervention leads to better patient outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are ambulatory patients aged 65 or older with a diaphyseal humeral shaft fracture.
Not a fit: Patients with intra-articular fractures, significant cognitive impairment, or other serious injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve recovery and quality of life for elderly patients with humeral shaft fractures.
How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored surgical interventions for fractures, the specific focus on early fixation in this elderly population is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Diaphyseal humeral shaft fracture (as defined as superior border of insertion of pectoralis major proximally, to the distal diaphysis) 2. Ambulatory (with or without the use of walking aides) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Fractures with intra-articular extension 2. Ipsilateral upper extremity injury 3. Patients with vascular injury 4. Brachial plexus injury 5. Compartment syndrome 6. Pathological fractures 7. Open fractures 8. Periprosthetic fracture 9. BMI \>40 10. Dementia or cognitive impairment that inhibits the collection of outcome measures 11. Likely problems, in the judgement of the investigator, with maintaining follow-up (i.e. patients with no fixed address, not mentally competent to give consent, intellectually challenged, patients without adequate support, etc.) 12. Inability to provide informed consent
Where this trial is running
New Westminster, British Columbia
- Royal Columbian Hospital — New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kyrsten Butterfield, BSc
- Email: kyrsten.butterfield@fraserhealth.ca
- Phone: 604-553-3247
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Humerus Shaft Fracture, Elderly, patient outcomes