Publication:

Surgical management of proximal humerus fracture treated with locking compression plate

Background Proximal humerus fractures accounts for about 4 to 5% of all fractures.  Treatment of unstable, displaced, and comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus remain challenging. Significant controversy continues regarding the best methods of treating displaced proximal humerus fractures. Various operative procedures are carried out, the recent trend in internal fixation has moved on to locking plates. The present study is undertaken to evaluate the functional outcome and complication of proximal humerus fractures treated by locking compression plate.

Methods This is a prospective study comprising of 30 patients with fractures of proximal humerus were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate were evaluated at Velammal  Institute Of Medical  Sciences, Madurai from the period of April 2015 to December 2016. Clinical and radiological evaluation was done. Patients will undergo open reduction internal fixation with locking compression plate for the sustained fracture under general anesthesia.

Results In our series, the majority of the patients were males, elderly aged, with RTA being the commonest mode of injury, involving 2 part, 3 part and 4 part fractures of the proximal humerus. Excellent and satisfactory results were found in 76.7% of patients with unsatisfactory results in 23.3 % according to Neer’s criteria. There were 100 % union rates and no failures.

Conclusions In conclusion locking Compression, the plate is an advantageous implant in proximal humeral fractures due to angular stability, particularly in comminuted fractures and in Osteoporotic bones in elderly patients, thus allowing early mobilization.