Traumatic Conditions (Fractures): Humeral Neck Fracture

The surgical neck of the humerus is so called because it is the area of the neck where fractures occur, rather than the anatomical neck. A fracture in this area may cause damage to the axillary nerve.

Complex humeral neck fracture

The surgical neck fracture has resulted in complete separation of the fragments, with a greater tuberosity fracture. Not surprisingly the associated axillary nerve injury did not recover despite early surgery.

Giant cell tumour

Pathological fractures are fairly common at this site. This x-ray shows a likely giant cell tumour in an eight-year-old.

Bony metastasis

Here is a likely bony metastasis in a 65-year-old who sustained this fracture pulling on his socks.

Click on the x-ray to enlarge.