Publication:

Treatment of proximal humerus fracture using proximal humerus locking plating

Background Proximal humerus fractures are the most common upper extremity fractures in older patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional outcome and complications of proximal humeral locking plate used for healing proximal humerus fractures.

Methods This prospective study was conducted at the department of Orthopaedics, Sir T. Hospital, Bhavnagar, from June 2008 to March 2010, with 20 patients who suffered with complex proximal humerus fractures and underwent surgical treatment with proximal humerus locking plates. Functional outcome was assessed at the final follow up by using Constant Murley score.

Results The mean age of the patients was 52 years. Male: female ratio was 1.5: 2. The most common mode if injury is low velocity trauma i.e. fall while walking or fall in bathroom seen in 13 patients. Average time for clinical union was 60 days, while average time for radiological union is 90 days taken in the study. Postoperative complications were seen in 2 patients. Delayed complications were seen in 10 cases. No patients had shown implant related complications. At the final follow up according to Constant Murley score, 36% patients had shown excellent results, 53% patients had shown good results and poor results were seen in 11% of cases.

Conclusion Our results show that good to excellent outcome can be achieved in treating proximal humerus fractures using locking plates in elderly patients. Early mobilization of the shoulder can be achieved without compromising fracture union.