Final answer:
Humeral non-union after nailing is a complex condition requiring surgical treatment, such as revision of internal fixation, and possibly bone grafting. It is essential to correct alignment and length to allow for proper healing and to prevent further complications involving nerves and blood vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment options for humeral non-union following nailing typically involve surgical intervention to promote healing. In some cases, a procedure called closed reduction may be considered, which involves the manual manipulation of the bone to set it into its natural position without the need for surgery. However, non-unions are more challenging and often require internal fixation techniques such as the insertion of pins, screws, or a plate, to stabilize the bone. Bone grafting may also be necessary to provide a scaffold for new bone growth. The goal is to restore the alignment and length of the humerus to ensure the proper function of the arm and avoid complications such as compression of nerves or blood vessels, which are closely associated with the humerus.
Following a fracture, bone repair initiates to heal the damage. If the fracture does not heal properly, leading to a non-union, the stability provided by the initial nailing may need to be supplemented or revised. Treatment must also address any issues that might impede healing, such as infection, poor nutritional status, or smoking, which can affect blood flow and bone growth.