Master the clinical assessment and management of humeral shaft fractures with this comprehensive orthopaedic masterclass. Learn exactly how to evaluate radial nerve function using the WEST mnemonic and confidently navigate the notoriously tricky Holstein-Lewis fracture pattern. ⏱ Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:24 Essentials 1:04 Ao 1:47 Deformity 2:25 West 3:00 Holstein 3:40 Alignment 4:16 Stopbrace 5:02 Algorithm 5:52 Implants 6:39 Numbers 7:18 Clinical reasoning — Primary 7:49 Clinical reasoning — Secondary This video delivers an in-depth, keyword-rich guide to humeral diaphyseal fractures, covering everything from core epidemiology and AO/OTA classification to muscular deforming forces and acceptable alignment parameters. Whether you are deciding between functional bracing and operative fixationor determining when to explore a radial nerve palsy, this masterclass provides the critical orthopaedic knowledge you need for optimal patient outcomes. 🦴 IN THIS VIDEO YOU'LL LEARN • How to confidently classify humeral shaft fractures using the AO/OTA 12-A, Band C system • The muscular deforming forces acting on the proximal and distal fragments at different fracture levels • How to systematically examine the radial nerve using the WEST mnemonic before and after manipulation • The specific clinical features and high nerve risk associated with the Holstein-Lewis distal third spiral fracture • The acceptable alignment limits for non-operative management, including the 20-30-3-15 rule • The indications for surgical stabilisation using the STOP BRACE criteria • Why functional bracing remains the gold standard, achieving union in over ninety percent of compliant patients • The critical difference in management between a primary radial nerve palsy and a secondary palsy ⏱️ CHAPTERS 📌 KEY TAKEAWAYS ✔️ Functional bracing achieves over 90% union rates; the humerus is remarkably forgiving due to shoulder and elbow compensation. ✔️ Always document radial nerve function (wrist and finger extension) before AND after any fracture manipulation. ✔️ A secondary radial nerve palsy developing after manipulation requires urgent exploration, whereas a primary palsy is observed for 3-4 months. ✔️ The Holstein-Lewis fracture (distal third lateral spiral) carries a 22-32% risk of radial nerve palsy and strongly warrants consideration for ORIF. ✔️ Tolerable angulation is generous: up to 20° sagittal, 30° coronal, 3cm shorteningand 15° rotation. 👩⚕️ WHO THIS IS FOR This masterclass is essential viewing for orthopaedic trainees, junior doctorsand medical students seeking a high-yield understanding of upper limb trauma. Interested patients looking to understand their humeral fracture and the rationale behind bracing or surgery will also find it highly informative. 📚 RELATED TOPICS: Radial nerve palsy and posterior interosseous nerve anatomy · Principles of functional bracing in orthopaedic trauma · Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) techniques for the humerus · Intramedullary nailing vs plating for humeral diaphyseal fractures · Floating elbow injuries and polytrauma management · Upper limb peripheral nerve examination 🔗 More free orthopaedic teaching at Orthovellum.com — subscribe for weekly videos. 🎨 CREDITS • Original Orthovellum production. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: Educational only — not individual medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment. #orthopaedics #orthopedicsurgery #humeralshaftfracture #trauma #radialnerve #functionalbracing #holsteinlewis #orthoteaching #medicaleducation #fracturefixation #anatomy #bonetracture #upperlimb