Fixation Of Proximal Humeral Fractures Research Articles

Commentary

Background: Proximal humeral fractures that are treated with locked plate constructs remain susceptible to collapse into a varus position. The objectives of the present study were to examine how medial comminution affects fracture stability and to determine the effect of calcar fixation on osteosynthesis stability. Methods: Eleven matched pairs of cadaveric humeri were osteotomized to create standard three-part fractures involving the surgical neck and the greater tuberosity. Five matched pairs were randomly assigned to have the medial calcar region remain intact. Six matched pairs had removal of a 10-mm medially based wedge of bone to simulate medial comminution. All fractures were stabilized in a uniform fashion with a proximal humeral locking plate. The constructs were secured, and the superior portion of the humeral head was subjected to compressive loading to induce varus collapse. Load-to-failure and energy-to-failure values along with stiffness and displacement at the time of failure were determined. Results: Medial comminution decreased the mean load to failure by 48% (523 N) (p = 0.015) and the mean energy to failure by 44% (2009 Nmm) (p = 0.013). The use of calcar screw fixation increased the mean load to failure by 31% (219 N) (p = 0.002) and the mean energy to failure by 44% (1279 Nmm) (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Medial comminution significantly decreased the stability of proximal humeral fracture fixation constructs. Calcar restoration with screw fixation significantly improved the stability of repaired fractures in cadaveric specimens. Clinical Relevance: The data suggest that medial comminution is a predictor of poor stability of proximal humeral fractures and that stability may be improved through calcar restoration.

The Role of Medial Comminution and Calcar Restoration in Varus Collapse of Proximal Humeral Fractures Treated with Locking Plates

Proximal humeral fractures that are treated with locked plate constructs remain susceptible to collapse into a varus position. The objectives of the present study were to examine how medial comminution affects fracture stability and to determine the effect of calcar fixation on osteosynthesis stability. Eleven matched pairs of cadaveric humeri were osteotomized to create standard three-part fractures involving the surgical neck and the greater tuberosity. Five matched pairs were randomly assigned to have the medial calcar region remain intact. Six matched pairs had removal of a 10-mm medially based wedge of bone to simulate medial comminution. All fractures were stabilized in a uniform fashion with a proximal humeral locking plate. The constructs were secured, and the superior portion of the humeral head was subjected to compressive loading to induce varus collapse. Load-to-failure and energy-to-failure values along with stiffness and displacement at the time of failure were determined. Medial comminution decreased the mean load to failure by 48% (523 N) (p = 0.015) and the mean energy to failure by 44% (2009 Nmm) (p = 0.013). The use of calcar screw fixation increased the mean load to failure by 31% (219 N) (p = 0.002) and the mean energy to failure by 44% (1279 Nmm) (p = 0.006). Medial comminution significantly decreased the stability of proximal humeral fracture fixation constructs. Calcar restoration with screw fixation significantly improved the stability of repaired fractures in cadaveric specimens. The data suggest that medial comminution is a predictor of poor stability of proximal humeral fractures and that stability may be improved through calcar restoration.

What’s New in Orthopaedic Trauma

This update presents a synopsis of the most clinically relevant high-quality studies related to orthopaedic trauma from the past twelve months. Key methods (♦), results (➢), and take-home points (✶) for these studies are presented. A number of comparative and cohort studies presented data on alternative methods of clavicular and proximal humeral fracture fixation. Comparative functional outcome data from these studies are presented in Table I. View this table: TABLE I Data from Studies on Clavicular and Proximal Humeral Fracture Fixation ### Clavicular Fractures #### Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Versus Nonoperative Treatment ♦ Sixty patients with displaced midshaft clavicular fractures were randomized to either nonoperative treatment (n = 32) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) (n = 28)1. ➢ The rate of nonunion was 24% in the nonoperative group and 0% in the ORIF group. However, there were no differences in the Constant score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, or pain at one year (Table I). ✶ Nonoperative treatment of displaced clavicular shaft fractures is associated with a higher nonunion rate than ORIF, but the outcomes in terms of function and pain are similar. #### Outcomes After Hook Plating of Lateral Fractures ♦ Thirty-six patients who were managed with hook plates for the treatment of lateral clavicular fractures were evaluated after a median duration of follow-up of twenty-eight months2. ➢ Ninety-five percent of the fractures healed, and ninety-two percent of the patients required reoperation for plate removal. The Oxford and Constant shoulder scores improved after plate removal, and improvement was greater if plate removal was performed prior to six months (Table I). ✶ Lateral clavicular fractures that are treated with a hook plate have high union rates, and plate removal prior to six months is recommended. ### Proximal Humeral Fractures #### Hemiarthroplasty Versus Nonoperative Treatment ♦ A prospective randomized trial in the Netherlands compared hemiarthroplasty with nonoperative treatment for patients with four-part proximal humeral fractures3. Twenty-five patients were included …

Biomechanical Evaluation of Locking Plate Fixation of Proximal Humeral Fractures Augmented With Calcium Phosphate Cement

To evaluate the influence of calcium phosphate cement augmentation on failure of locking plate fixation of proximal humeral fracture fixation in a cadaveric fracture model. A 5-mm wedge osteotomy was created in each of 11 paired fresh-frozen human cadaveric humeri (age > 65 years). Specimens were randomly assigned to receive either locked plate fixation (group 1) or locked plate fixation with cement augmentation (group 2). Constructs were tested for axial stiffness, load to failure, and failure mode using a material testing machine. Cement-augmented specimens resisted higher loads (1936 ± 609 N) in comparison to nonaugmented specimens (1373 ± 590 N) (P = 0.01). In group 1, varus displacement and glenohumeral screw perforation occurred in all cases. Varus displacement occurred in 2 cases in group 2, whereas glenohumeral screw perforation did not occur in any of the cases. Cement augmentation led to a significant increase in axial stiffness (P = 0.04). Calcium phosphate cement-augmented locking plates enhanced fixation stability in proximal humeral fractures and reduced glenohumeral screw perforation in this 2-part cadaveric model. The ultimate advantage of this method remains to be determined in vivo.

Technical tips for fixation of proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients

Despite the application of modern locking plate technology, complications remain common after fixation of proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients. Varus deformity and intra-articular hardware are most often responsible; fortunately, both of these complications can be avoided. Recent advances in imaging, reduction techniques, fixation methods, and postoperative care have made surgical outcomes more reliable. Particular attention should be paid to obtaining high-quality fluoroscopic images, avoiding varus reductions, supporting the osteoporotic humeral head, using appropriate screw length, using tension band sutures liberally, and protecting the construct postoperatively. Using these methods, many proximal humeral fractures in patients older than 75 years can be fixed reliably.

Functional Outcomes Following Locking Plate Fixation of Complex Proximal Humeral Fractures

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of patients with complex proximal humeral fractures fixated by locking plate technology. Eighty-nine patients (27 men, 62 women) older than 50 years with 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures were treated using locking plate fixation and followed up for more than 1 year. Functional outcomes were assessed by using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Constant scores, and the complications were evaluated through physical and radiographic examinations. Mean DASH and Constant scores for all 89 patients were 19.6 and 66.6 points, respectively. No significant differences existed in the 2 scores between patients with 3- and 4-part fractures. Of the 71 patients without complications, 68 had an excellent functional outcome according to the DASH score, whereas 2 patients had an excellent outcome on the Constant score. For the 18 patients with complications, the functional outcomes were significantly poorer compared with patients without complications. According to the Constant score, all patients with complications were classified into a moderate or poor functional outcome, but the rate was 12% with the DASH score. In patients with 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures fixed with locking plate fixation, complications were the major cause of compromised functional outcomes. Based on these results, different conclusions would be reached when the functional outcome was assessed by using the DASH and Constant scores separately. Because the clinician-based Constant score may bias the results, patient-based assessments, such as the DASH score, are required for the evaluation of functional outcome after shoulder surgery.

Locking plate fixation of proximal humeral fractures with impaction of the fracture site to restore medial column support: a biomechanical study

Despite the advent of locking plate techniques, proximal humeral fracture fixation can fail due to varus collapse, especially in osteoporotic bone with medial cortex comminution. This study investigated the effect of restoring the integrity of the medial column by fracture impaction and shaft medialization with locking plate fixation. This construct was compared with a traditional locking plate construct under conditions of varus cyclical loading. Proximal humeral fractures with medial comminution were simulated by performing wedge-shaped osteotomies at the surgical neck in cadaveric specimens and removing 1 cm of medial cortex. For each cadaver (n = 6), 1 humeral fracture was fixed with a traditional locking plate construct. The other was fixed with the locking plate construct plus fracture impaction and shaft medialization, resulting in medial column restoration. The humeral head was immobilized, and a repetitive, varus force was applied to the humeral shaft until construct collapse or until 25,000 cycles were completed. None of the constructs with fracture impaction collapsed, whereas 5 of 6 of the nonaugmented constructs collapsed before reaching 25,000 cycles (P = .008). Collapse of the 5 nonimpacted constructs that failed occurred after an average of 11,470 ± 3589 cycles. Fracture impaction increased the ability of the locking plate to withstand repetitive varus loading. This technique provides a construct biomechanically superior to locking plate fixation alone.

Incidence and Severity of Infections After Closed Reduction and External Fixation of Proximal Humeral Fractures

This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and severity of pin tract infections in a series of patients treated by Closed reduction external fixation (CREF) for proximal humeral fractures. Retrospective review of medical charts and radiographs. Academic level-1 trauma center. Forty-six consecutive patients (20 males, 26 females, mean age 50 years (range 20-90 years) with proximal humeral fractures treated by CREF were enrolled into the study based on data retrieved from medical charts and radiographs. None. Evaluation of the incidence and severity of post-CREF pin tract infections. All 46 fractures healed after an average of 4 weeks. There were 18 (39.1%) cases of pin tract infections whose most common bacteria colonization was gram-positive. Pin tract infections were significantly higher among patients with multiple fragment fractures and multiple pins. Treatment consisting of oral or intravenous antibiotics was effective in all cases, and the infection was resolved within 2 weeks at most. Most pin tract infections were managed with systemic antibiotics with good results. The occurrence of pin tract infection did not require a change of the stabilization method and none of the patients required revision of their CREF.

Short, Locked Humeral Nailing via Neviaser Portal

Supraspinatus tendon trauma may contribute to residual shoulder pain after nail fixation for proximal humeral fractures. Some have proposed a more medial starting point for humeral nail insertion to avoid cuff tendon footprint damage. We hypothesized that percutaneous nail insertion via Neviaser portal would not only be possible, but would avoid tendon trauma, while sacrificing articular cartilage. Under c-arm guidance and in percutaneous fashion, we nailed 16 consecutive complete (head and neck, etc, intact) specimen right proximal humeri with locked short humeral nails (Aequalis) via Neviaser portal. Each shoulder was dissected to study the damage to the rotator cuff and long head of the biceps tendons as well as to the articular surfaces. We measured the humeral-thoracic abduction arc before the damaged articular surface contacted the superior glenoid. There were 5 male specimens and 11 female specimens with a mean age of 83 years at the time of death. We successfully inserted 15 of 16 humeral nails through this percutaneous approach. No supraspinatus tendon or long head of the biceps tendon was damaged. All nails passed entirely through supraspinatus muscle belly. Thirteen of 15 starting points were entirely on articular surface. Mean arc of abduction before superior glenoid contact was 76 degrees (range, 50 degrees-130 degrees). Mean distance from the edge of the articular surface to the most lateral part of the nail insertion was 11 mm (0-25 mm). Short, locked humeral nail insertion is possible in percutaneous fashion via Neviaser portal without tendon injury. However, successful insertion comes at the cost of articular cartilage damage.

Proximal humeral fractures: The role of calcium sulphate augmentation and extended deltoid splitting approach in internal fixation using locking plates

The aim of our study is to analyse the results of our surgical technique for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures and fracture dislocations using locking plates in conjunction with calcium sulphate bone-substitute augmentation and tuberosity repair using high-strength sutures. We used the extended deltoid-splitting approach for fracture patterns involving displacement of both lesser and greater tuberosities and for fracture-dislocations. Optimal surgical management of proximal humeral fractures remains controversial. Locking plates have become a popular method of fixation. However, failure of fixation may occur if they are used as the sole method of fixation in comminuted fractures, especially in osteopenic bone. MethodsWe retrospectively analysed 22 proximal humeral fractures in 21 patients; 10 were male and 11 female with an average age of 64.6 years (range 37–77). Average follow-up was 24 months. Eleven of these fractures were exposed by the extended deltoid-splitting approach. Fractures were classified according to Neer and Hertel systems. Preoperative radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans in three- and four-part fractures were done to assess the displacement and medial calcar length for predicting the humeral head vascularity. According to the Neer classification, there were five two-part, six three-part, five four-part fractures and six fracture-dislocations (two anterior and four posterior). Results were assessed clinically with disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, modified Constant and Murley scores and serial postoperative radiographs. ResultsThe mean DASH score was 16.18 and the modified Constant and Murley score was 64.04 at the last follow-up. Eighteen out of twenty-two cases achieved good clinical outcome. All the fractures united with no evidence of infection, failure of fixation, malunion, tuberosity failure, avascular necrosis or adverse reaction to calcium sulphate bone substitute. There was no evidence of axillary nerve injury. Four patients had a longer recovery period due to stiffness, associated wrist fracture and elbow dislocation. The CaSO4 bone substitute was replaced by normal appearing trabecular bone texture at an average of 6 months in all patients. ConclusionIn our experience, we have found the use of locking plates, calcium sulphate bone substitute and tuberosity repair with high-strength sutures to be a safe and reliable method of internal fixation for complex proximal humeral fractures and fracture-dislocations. Furthermore, we have also found the use of the extended deltoid-splitting approach to be safe and to provide excellent exposure facilitating accurate reduction for fixation of the fracture patterns involving displacement of both lesser and greater tuberosities and for fracture-dislocations.

Plating of Proximal Humeral Fractures

The optimal treatment for proximal humeral fractures is controversial. Few data exist concerning the influence of the surgical approach on the outcome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of proximal humeral fractures treated with locking plate fixation through a deltopectoral vs an anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach. Of 86 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 70 were available for follow-up examination. Thirty-three patients were treated through a deltopectoral approach and 37 through an anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach. In all cases, open reduction and internal fixation with a PHILOS locking plate (Synthes, Umkirch, Germany) was performed. Clinical follow-up included evaluation of pain, shoulder mobility, and strength. Constant score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score were assessed. A clinical neurological examination of the axillary nerve was also performed. Consolidation, reduction, and appearance of head necrosis were evaluated radiographically. After a mean follow-up of 33 months, Constant scores, DASH scores, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores showed no significant differences between the groups. Clinical neurologic examination of the axillary nerve revealed no obvious damage to the nerve in either group. Deltopectoral and anterolateral detoid-splitting approaches for plate fixation of proximal humeral fractures are safe and provide similar clinical outcomes. The results of this study suggest that the approach can be chosen according to surgeon preference.

Modification of the Resch procedure

Controversy surrounds the management of displaced three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. The percutaneous Resch technique of stabilisation involves minimal soft-tissue dissection and a reduced risk of stiffness and avascular necrosis. However, it requires a second operation to remove Kirschner wires and the humeral block. We describe a modification of this technique that dispenses with the need for this second operation and relies on a sequential pattern of screw placement. We report the outcome of 32 three- or four-part fractures of the proximal humerus treated in this way at a mean follow-up of 3.8years (2 to 8)). There were 14 men and 18 women with a mean age of 56 years (28 to 83). At final follow-up the mean Oxford shoulder scores were 38 (31 to 44) and 39 (31 to 42), and the mean Constant scores were 79 (65 to 92) and 72 (70 to 80) for three- and four-part fractures, respectively. We further analysed the results in patients aged < 60 years with high-energy fractures and those aged ≥ 60 years with osteoporotic fractures. There were no cases of nonunion or avascular necrosis. The results were good and comparable to those previously reported for the Resch technique and other means of fixation for proximal humeral fractures. We would recommend this modification of the technique for the treatment of displaced three-part and four-part fractures in patients both younger and older than 60 years of age.

Investigation of metallic and carbon fibre PEEK fracture fixation devices for three-part proximal humeral fractures

A computational investigation of proximal humeral fracture fixation has been conducted. Four devices were selected for the study; a locking plate, intramedullary nail (IM Nail), K-wires and a Bilboquet device. A 3D model of a humerus was created using a process of thresholding based on the grayscale values of a CT scan of an intact humerus. An idealised three part fracture was created in addition to removing a standard volume from the humeral head as a representation of bone voids that occur as a result of the injury. All finite element simulations conducted represent 90° arm abduction. Simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of filling this bone void with calcium phosphate cement for each device. The effect of constructing devices from carbon fibre polyetheretherketone (CFPEEK) was investigated. Simulations of cement reinforced devices predict greater stability for each device. The average unreinforced fracture line opening (FLO) is reduced by 48.5% for metallic devices with a lesser effect on composite devices with FLO reduced by 23.6%. Relative sliding (shear displacement) is also reduced between fracture fragments by an average of 58.34%. CFPEEK device simulations predict reduced stresses at the device–bone interface.

Shoulder outcome measures: is there a right answer?

A number of outcome measures (instruments) are used to assess shoulder pain and function in clinical practice. No clear 'gold standard' exists and it is thought that different instruments will give a different answer. Our aim is to statistically compare four commonly used outcome measures in a group of trauma patients and to identify whether instruments which combine objective and subjective components differ from those which are purely subjective. Forty-four patients undergoing internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures were recruited between 2003 and 2008. Each was asked to complete a number of outcome measures: University of Los Angeles score (UCLA); Constant and Murley score (Constant); Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS); Quick form of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH). Each were measured on a different scale but were standardised to 0-100 for comparison. Purely subjective instruments gave higher scores (better function and/or less pain). Statistical differences were found between each pair of instruments (p<0.001), except for the comparison between UCLA and QuickDASH (p=0.403). The study found inconsistencies between instruments, with outcomes varying depending on whether subjective or objective measurements were being assessed. Outcome measures are useful tools, but clinicians need to be aware that their choice of instrument should be made carefully, taking into account the reason behind its use with regard to outcome.

Conservative treatment, plate fixation, or prosthesis for proximal humeral fracture. A prospective randomized study

BackgroundProximal humerus fracture is the third most common fracture type after hip and distal radius fracture in elderly patients. A comprehensive study by Palvanen et al. demonstrated an increase in the annual fracture rate of 13.7% per year over the past 33 years. Should this trend continue, the fracture rate would triple over the next three decades. The increasing incidence of low-energy fractures raises questions about the optimal treatment in terms of functional outcome, pain, and rehabilitation time, as well as the economical impact. Despite the high incidence and costs of proximal humerus fractures, there is currently no valid scientific evidence for the best treatment method. Several publications, including a Cochrane review outline the need for high-quality, well-designed randomized controlled trials.Methods/DesignThe study is a prospective, randomized, national multi-center trial. The hypothesis of the trial is that surgical treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures achieves better functional outcome, pain relief, and patient satisfaction compared to conservative treatment. The trial is designed to compare conservative and surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures in patients 60 years and older. The trial includes two strata. Stratum I compares surgical treatment with locking plates to conservative treatment for two-part fractures. Stratum II compares multi-fragmented fractures, including three- and four-part fractures. The aim of Stratum II is to compare conservative treatment, surgical treatment with the Philos locking plate, and hemiarthroplasty with an Epoca prosthesis. The primary outcome measure will be the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and the secondary outcome measures will be the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) value, OSS, Constant-Murley Score, VAS, and 15D.Recruiting time will be 3 years. The results will be analyzed after the 2-year follow-up period.DiscussionThis publication presents a prospective, randomized, national multi-center trial. It gives details of patient flow, randomization, aftercare and also ways of analysis of the material and ways to present and publish the results.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01246167

Locking plate fixation of fractures of the proximal humerus: analysis of complications, revision strategies and outcome

Locking plates for open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) of proximal humeral fractures are widely used. We observed an unusually high number of patients with complications referred to our institution. It was the purpose of this study to report these complications, as well as their treatment and outcome. From 2003 to 2010, all patients treated for complications after ORIF with locking plates for proximal humeral fractures were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Patients were followed up clinically and radiographically. In total, 121 patients (67 women and 54 men; mean age, 59 years) were referred after primary locking plate ORIF; 80% had a 3- or 4-part fracture. A mean of 3 complications occurred per patient, including malreduction, primary screw cutout, malunion, nonunion, avascular necrosis, and infection. Secondary screw cutout was found in 57% of patients, causing glenoid destruction in 33% of patients. A mean of 1.5 revision surgeries were needed. Hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty improved the mean Constant score (24 to 55 points, P < .05; 29 to 54 points, P= .3; and 25 to 48 points, P < .05, respectively) after a mean of 24 months. In 6 patients, glenoid implantation was no longer possible because of the destruction by perforated head screws. In this negatively selected series, complications resulted in secondary arthroplasties in over 50% of the patients. Shoulder function, though improved, remained substantially restricted even after revision surgery. Glenoid destruction by locking screws was the most devastating and previously almost unseen complication, which limited the options of treatment.

L-F1.2 Biomechanical evaluation of locking plate fixation of proximal humeral fractures augmented with calcium phosphate cement

Introduction: Locked nail osteosynthesis allows a minimal invasive stabilisation of the very frequent proximal humerus fractures. However most patients are elderly with poor bone quality and the proximal humerus is biomechanically highly loaded. The factors influencing the cut out risk was examined in an alternating load test model. Material and Methods: As standard model a PHN series with spiral blade and screw fixation. As test, Implanta – a device with the option of 4 locked screw fixation and additional possibility of a fork blade over the central screw – was tested under different locking alternatives. (HGN = Humerus Gliding Nail.) A subcapital defect osteotomy for deformation testing (1000 Cycles between 50 and 150N) and an osteotomy along the column anatomicum for cut out were tested with 1000 Cycles between 50 and 300N load. In each group 5 sow bones were tested. Results: the deformation in all groups increased from the first to the 1000th Cycle. The mean deformation was 1mm for the HGN blade, 1.1 for the HGN screw and 1.55mm for the PFN Group. The standard deviation was gug and the results not significant different. In the cut out test the rate of cut out was similar for the PHN and the HGN with a single screw, whereas the cut out for the HGN with 4 screws was reduced by 50% and the use of the blade additional with the central screw reduced the cut out risk by 66%. However standard deviation was very high. Conclusion: for a reduced deformation and cut out risk the most important factor is the number of locking elements. The combination of locked screws with a fork blade with a higher implant bone contact surface improves the cut out rate but in the small series the differences are not significant.

Intermediate Outcomes Following Percutaneous Fixation of Proximal Humeral Fractures

Mini-open reduction and percutaneous fixation of proximal humeral fractures historically results in good outcomes and a low prevalence of osteonecrosis reported with short-term follow-up. The purpose of this study was to determine the midterm results of our multicenter case series of proximal humeral fractures treated with percutaneous fixation. Between 1999 and 2006, thirty-nine patients were treated with percutaneous reduction and fixation for proximal humeral fractures at three tertiary shoulder referral centers. Twenty-seven of these patients were available for intermediate follow-up at a minimum of three years (mean, eighty-four months; range, thirty-seven to 128 months) after surgery; the follow-up examination included use of subjective outcome measures and radiographic analysis to identify osteonecrosis and posttraumatic osteoarthritis on radiographs. Osteonecrosis was detected in seven (26%) of the total group of twenty-seven patients at a mean of fifty months (range, eleven to 101 months) after the date of percutaneous fixation. Osteonecrosis was observed in five (50%) of the ten patients who had four-part fractures, two (17%) of the twelve patients who had three-part fractures, and none (0%) of the five patients who had two-part fractures. Posttraumatic osteoarthritis, including osteonecrosis, was present on radiographs in ten (37%) of the total group of twenty-seven patients. Posttraumatic osteoarthritis was observed in six (60%) of the ten patients who had four-part fractures, four (33%) of the twelve patients who had three-part fractures, and none (0%) of the five patients who had two-part fractures. Intermediate follow-up of patients with percutaneously treated proximal humeral fractures demonstrates an increased prevalence of osteonecrosis and posttraumatic osteoarthritis over time, with some patients with these complications presenting as late as eight years postoperatively. Development of osteonecrosis did not have a universally negative impact on subjective outcome scores.

Est-il justifié d’osteosynthèser les fractures de l’humerus proximal au prix d’un risque accru d’ostéonécrose?

To evaluate fixation of proximal humeral fractures by anterograde nailing, in terms of 1) fracture reduction, bone healing 2) osteonecrosis 3) functional consequences of osteonecrosis and malunion. Prospective, consecutive, multicenter based. Academic Trauma Centers; Approval was received from the ethics committee of the institutions involved in the study. Fifty-one patients were enrolled prospectively, with 31 three-part and 20 four-part displaced fractures (head displacement > 45°, tuberosity-head gap > 10 mm, diaphyseal gap > 10 mm). A Telegraph™ nail (FH Orthopedics, Heimsbrunn, France) was the fixation device used, introduced through a superolateral transdeltoid approach under fluoroscopic guidance. The assessment included Simple Shoulder Test, absolute Constant score, X-rays every 3 months and CT-scan at final evaluation. Twelve patients died and one was lost to follow-up. Immediate complications included secondary displacement in four patients. There were no infections, no deltoid muscle or axillary nerve damage, and all the fractures united. After a mean follow-up of 24.1 months, malunion was observed in 29 % of the remaining 38 patients and osteonecrosis in 32 %. Both complications were more frequent and extensive in patients with four-part fractures. The osteonecrosis area influenced the Constant score, which was 55.8 points when the area was < 30 %, 50.6 points between 30 and 50 %, and 38 points when larger than 50 %. Head malunion affected the Simple Shoulder Test and the Constant score. Nailing may thus be recommended for three-part fractures, because osteonecrosis is less frequent, more focused, and better tolerated in this sub-group. In contrast, antegrade nailing was not more beneficial than other internal fixation techniques for preventing osteonecrosis or head malunion in patients with four-part fractures. Prospective study .

Is it worth fixing proximal humeral fractures at increased vascular risk?

To evaluate fixation of proximal humeral fractures by anterograde nailing, in terms of fracture reduction, bone healing; osteonecrosis; functional consequences of osteonecrosis and malunion. Prospective, consecutive, multicenter based. Academic Trauma Centers; approval was received from the ethics committee of the institutions involved in the study. Fifty-one patients were enrolled prospectively, with 31 3-part and 20 4-part displaced fractures (head displacement greater than 45°, tuberosity-head gap greater than 10mm, diaphyseal gap greater than 10mm). A Telegraph™ nail (FH Orthopedics, Heimsbrunn, France) was the fixation device used, introduced through a superolateral transdeltoid approach under fluoroscopic guidance. The assessment included Simple Shoulder Test, absolute Constant score, X-rays every 3 months and CT-scan at final evaluation. Twelve patients died and one was lost to follow-up. Immediate complications included secondary displacement in four patients. There were no infections, no deltoid muscle or axillary nerve damage, and all the fractures united. After a mean follow-up of 24.1 months, malunion was observed in 29% of the remaining 38 patients and osteonecrosis in 32%. Both complications were more frequent and extensive in patients with 4-part fractures. The osteonecrosis area influenced the Constant score, which was 55.8 points when the area was less than 30%, 50.6 points between 30 and 50%, and 38 points when larger than 50%. Head malunion affected the Simple Shoulder Test and the Constant score. Nailing may thus be recommended for 3-part fractures, because osteonecrosis is less frequent, more focused, and better tolerated in this sub-group. In contrast, antegrade nailing was not more beneficial than other internal fixation techniques for preventing osteonecrosis or head malunion in patients with 4-part fractures. Level IV: prospective study.