Introduction : Humeral shaft fractures (HSF) are common, but limited data are available regarding this condition in Chad. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and outcomes aspects of these fractures at the National Reference University Hospital (CHU-RN) of N'Djamena.

Patients and methods : This was a 12-month retrospective observational study (November 2024 to August 2025). All patients aged 18 years and older admitted and treated at the CHU-RN for a recent HSF were included. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the modified Stewart and Hundley score.

Results : Out of 454 admissions for fractures, 43 cases of HSF were recorded, representing a hospital frequency of 9.5% (95% CI : [7.11% - 12.52%]). The median age was 25.1 years with a male predominance (sex ratio of 3.8). Road traffic accidents were the leading etiology (44.2%), mostly involving high-energy trauma (72.1%). The middle third was the most frequent location (53.5%) and complex fracture patterns (AO groups B and C) predominated (58.1%). Initial radial nerve palsy was observed in 7.0% of patients. Treatment was surgical in 60.5% of cases (n = 26), predominantly with open reduction and plate fixation (69.2% of operated patients). At a median follow-up of 10.8 months, the overall union rate was 93.0% with a median healing time of 3.2 months. Functional outcomes were satisfactory (excellent or good) in 81.4% of cases.

Conclusion : Humeral shaft fractures in Chad mainly affect young adult males during high-energy road traffic accidents. Open reduction and plate fixation provides excellent bone union rates and satisfactory functional outcomes.