Question

While riding a bike, a patient fell against a tree and fractured the shaft of the humerus at midlength. What nerve may be injured because of its close proximity to the injury?

A. Ulnar
B. Radial
C. Axillary
D. Medial antebrachial cutaneous
E. Median

Answer 1

The radial nerve may be injured in a midshaft humerus fracture due to its close proximity to the injury site, potentially affecting the wrist and finger extension and sensation in part of the hand.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the case of a fractured humerus shaft at midlength, the radial nerve is likely to be at risk due to its proximity to the site of injury. The radial nerve runs in the radial groove of the humerus and is responsible for innervating the muscles that extend the wrist and fingers, as well as providing sensation to part of the hand. When a fracture occurs in the midshaft of the humerus, there is a potential for the radial nerve to be compressed, stretched, or damaged.