Humeral Fractures Research Articles

Short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes with modular long stem for revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundWhen performing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with compromised proximal bone fixation, surgeons must consider using specialized stems with a distal press-fit design. In this study, the authors report on the clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients who underwent surgical management with modular diaphyseal press-fit stems. MethodsIn 2017-2021, patients who underwent revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty reconstruction with diaphyseal press-fit stems (Aequalis Adjustable Stem [AS] or Aequalis Flex Revive Stem [RS]; Stryker, Kalamazoo, MI, USA) with minimum 1-year follow-up were identified. Patients with complex proximal humerus and scapula fractures, neurological injuries, and custom humeral replacements were excluded. Demographics and clinical follow-up data including range of motion, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), American Shoulder Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation were retrospectively reviewed. Postoperative radiographs were reviewed for aseptic humeral loosening, periprosthetic instability, stress shielding, periprosthetic fractures, and humeral stem failure. ResultsSixty-five patients (29 AS and 36 RS) had mean follow-up of 25 months (standard deviation ± 16). Mean anterior elevation improved from 57° ± 39 preoperative to 121° ± 31 postoperatively. Mean external rotation improved from 3° ± 17 to 34° ± 16. Mean internal rotation improved from 4° ± 13 to 35° ± 26. Mean VAS improved from 6.7 ± 2.2 to 2.9 ± 1.5. Mean SST improved from 13% ± 13% to 65% ± 22%. Mean ASES score improved from 19 ± 13 to 60 ± 18. Mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation improved from 25% ± 18% to 71% ± 17%. There were statistically significant differences in mean postoperative VAS (P = .0017), SST (P = .025), and ASES score (P = .0228) in favor of the RS group. There were no other notable differences between groups. The most common complications were aseptic humeral stem loosening (24% vs. 3%, P = .018) and periprosthetic instability (10% vs. 6%, P = .649) for the AS and RS cohorts, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between surgical revision rates between the AS and RS cohorts (24% vs. 8%, respectively. P = .096). DiscussionDiaphyseal press-fit modular humeral stem can provide a viable surgical alternative in compromised proximal humeral bone. At short-term follow-up, the clinical and radiographic outcomes are comparable to other stem designs. Further studies are necessary to identify risks and causes of failure associated with modular diaphyseal press-fit stems.

Proximal humeral fractures with vascular compromise.

Vascular compromise due to arterial injury is a rare but serious complication of a proximal humeral fracture. The aims of this study were to report its incidence in a large urban population, and to identify clinical and radiological factors which are associated with this complication. We also evaluated the results of the use of our protocol for the management of these injuries. A total of 3,497 adult patients with a proximal humeral fracture were managed between January 2015 and December 2022 in a single tertiary trauma centre. Their mean age was 66.7 years (18 to 103) and 2,510 (72%) were female. We compared the demographic data, clinical features, and configuration of those whose fracture was complicated by vascular compromise with those of the remaining patients. The incidence of vascular compromise was calculated from national population data, and predictive factors for its occurrence were investigated using univariate analysis. A total of 18 patients (0.5%) had a proximal humeral fracture and clinical evidence of vascular compromise, giving an annual incidence of 0.29 per 100,000 of the population. Their mean age was 68.7 years (45 to 92) and ten (56%) were female. Evidence of a mixed pattern neurological deficit (brachial plexus palsy) (odds ratio (OR) 380.6 (95% CI 85.9 to 1,685.8); p < 0.001), complete separation of the proximal shaft from the humeral head with medial displacement (OR 39.5 (95% CI 14.0 to 111.8); p < 0.001), and a fracture-dislocation (OR 5.0 (95% CI 1.6 to 15.3); p = 0.015) were all associated with an increased risk of associated vascular compromise. A policy of reduction and fixation of the fracture prior to vascular surgical intervention had favourable outcomes without vascular sequelae. The classic signs of distal ischaemia are often absent in patients with proximal injuries to major vessels. We were able to identify specific clinical and radiological 'red flags' which, particularly when present in combination, should increase the suspicion of a fracture with an associated vascular injury, and facilitate early diagnosis and appropriate combined orthopaedic and vascular intervention.

Assessing screw length impact on bone strain in proximal humerus fracture fixation via surrogate modelling.

A high failure rate is associated with fracture plates in proximal humerus fractures. The causes of failure remain unclear due to the complexity of the problem including the number and position of the screws, their length and orientation in the space. Finite element (FE) analysis has been used for the analysis of plating of proximal humeral fractures, but due to computational costs is unable to fully explore all potential screw combinations. Surrogate modelling is a viable solution, having the potential to significantly reduce the computational cost whilst requiring a moderate number of training sets. This study aimed to develop adaptive neural network (ANN)-based surrogate models to predict the strain in the humeral bone as a result of changing the length of the screws. The ANN models were trained using data from FE simulations of a single humerus, and after defining the best training sample size, multiple and single-output models were developed. The best performing ANN model was used to predict all the possible screw length configurations. The ANN predictions were compared with the FE results of unseen data, showing a good correlation (R2 = 0.99) and low levels of error (RMSE = 0.51%-1.83% strain). The ANN predictions of all possible screw length configurations showed that the screw that provided the medial support was the most influential on the predicted strain. Overall, the ANN-based surrogate model accurately captured bone strains and has the potential to be used for more complex problems with a larger number of variables.

Adoption of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures differs by patient race

BackgroundReverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) has gained popularity for the operative treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHF). The purpose of this study was to compare racial differences in surgical management of PHF between open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), hemiarthroplasty, and rTSA. Our hypothesis was that there would be no difference in fixation by race. MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried for ORIF, rTSA, and hemiarthroplasty between 2006 and 2020 for patients with a PHF. Race, ethnicity, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class were recorded. Chi squared tests were performed to assess relationships between patient factors and operative intervention. Factors significant at the 0.10 level in univariable analyses were included in a multivariable multinomial model to predict operative intervention. Results7,499 patients underwent surgical treatment for a PHF, including 526 (7%) undergoing hemiarthroplasty, 5,011 (67%) undergoing ORIF, and 1,962 (26%) undergoing rTSA. 27% of white patients with PHF underwent rTSA compared to 21% of Black patients, 16% of Asian patients, and 14% of Native American and Alaskan Native patients (p<0.001). In the multivariable analysis, utilization of rTSA increased over time (OR 1.2 per year since 2006, p < 0.001) and hemiarthroplasty decreased over time (OR 0.86 per year since 2006, p < 0.001). Non-white patients had significantly lower odds of undergoing rTSA versus ORIF (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58-0.97), as did male patients (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.66-0.88). Patients over 65 (OR 3.86, 95% CI 3.39-4.38), patients with higher ASA classifications (ASA2: OR 3.24, 95% CI 1.86-5.66, ASA3: OR 4.77, 95% CI 2.74-8.32, ASA4: OR 5.25, 95% CI 2.89-9.54), and patients who were overweight (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.14-1.55) or obese (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.32-1.75) had higher odds of undergoing rTSA versus ORIF. DiscussionAs utilization of rTSA increases, understanding disparities in surgical treatment of PHF is crucial to improving outcomes and equitable access to emerging orthopedic technologies. While patient factors such as age, BMI, and comorbidities are known to directly impact outcomes and thus may be predictive of the type of surgical intervention, patient race should not dictate treatment.

The relationship between humeral head angulation and bone void within the humeral head in proximal humerus fractures

BackgroundThe variability of humeral head angulation in proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) is a noteworthy observation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential association between humeral head angulation and bone void within the humeral head in PHFs. MethodsWe used the reconstruction function in Mimics software to generate three-dimensional models of fractures. Bony landmarks were employed to accurately define the calcar and humeral head zone. Boolean subtraction was performed to calculate the volume of head bone void. ResultsThe cohort consisted of 60 (74.1 %) varus, 21 (25.9 %) valgus, and 23 (22.1 %) neutral angulated PHFs. The mean percentage of humeral head bone void was 38.5 ± 17.8 in varus, 36.3 ± 15.7 in valgus, and 30.1 ± 10.6 in neutral angulated PHFs. A significant difference was observed between the varus and neutral groups (P = 0.035). In addition, an analysis of humeral head bone void was conducted among patients aged over 65 years old, revealing a mean percentage of 42.7 ± 16.4 in varus (27 cases), 34.8 ± 14.5 in valgus (13 cases), and 28.1 ± 11.8 in neutral (8 cases) angulated PHFs. The difference between the varus and neutral groups was also significant (P = 0.023). ConclusionAll types of angulation patterns exhibited humeral head bone void to some extent, with the varus-displaced PHFs demonstrating more obvious defects in comparison to the neutral angulated type.

Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment of Displaced Proximal Humerus Fractures in Adolescents: Results of a Prospective Multicenter Study

Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment of Displaced Proximal Humerus Fractures in Adolescents: Results of a Prospective Multicenter Study

Risk factors for dysfunctional elbow stiffness following operative fixation of distal humerus fractures

BackgroundElbow stiffness is one of the most common complications after operative fixation of distal humerus fractures; however, there is relatively limited literature assessing which factors are associated with this problem. The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors associated with dysfunctional elbow stiffness in distal humerus fractures after operative fixation. MethodsA retrospective review of all distal humerus fractures that underwent operative fixation (AO/OTA 13A-C) at a single level 1 trauma center from November 2014 to October 2021. A minimum six-month follow-up was required for inclusion or the outcome of interest. Dysfunctional elbow stiffness was defined as a flexion-extension arc of less than 100° at latest follow-up or any patient requiring surgical treatment for limited elbow range of motion. ResultsA total of 110 patients with distal humerus fractures were included in the study: 54 patients comprised the elbow stiffness group and 56 patients were in the control group. Average follow-up of 343 (59 to 2,079) days. Multiple logistic regression showed that orthogonal plate configuration (aOR: 5.70, 95% CI: 1.91-16.99, p=0.002), and longer operative time (aOR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11-3.10, p=0.017) were independently associated with an increased odds of elbow stiffness. OTA/AO 13A type fractures were significantly associated with a decreased odds of stiffness (aOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.03-0.80, p=0.026). Among 13C fractures, olecranon osteotomy (aOR: 5.48, 95% CI: 1.08-27.73, p=0.040) was also associated with an increased odds of elbow stiffness. There were no significant differences in injury mechanism, Gustilo-Anderson classification, reduction quality, days to surgery from admission, type of fixation, as well as rates of ipsilateral upper extremity fracture, neurovascular injury, nonunion, or infection between the two groups. ConclusionDysfunctional elbow stiffness was observed in 49.1% of patients who underwent operative fixation of distal humerus fractures in the present study. Orthogonal plate configuration, olecranon osteotomy, and longer operative time were associated with an increased odds of dysfunctional elbow stiffness; however, 13A type fractures were associated with decreased odds of stiffness. Patients with these injuries should be counseled on their risk of stiffness following surgery, and modifiable risk factors like plate positioning and performing an olecranon osteotomy should be considered by surgeons.

Cemented Versus Uncemented Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures: National Shoulder Arthroplasty Data from Türkiye.

This study evaluated national trends in cemented and uncemented reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for proximal humerus fractures using a comprehensive national surgical database. This study aimed to compare RSA used in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures with the literature and to determine the country's trend. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the health records of individuals aged ≥ 18 years who underwent RSA for proximal humerus fractures between 2016 and 2022. Patients were divided into cemented and uncemented groups, and demographic data (age, sex), duration of hospital stay, transfusions, revisions, mortality, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores were analyzed. A total of 618 cemented RSA and 1,364 uncemented RSA procedures were reviewed. Patients who underwent cemented RSA were significantly older than those who had uncemented RSA (p = 0.002). Transfusion rates were higher in the cemented RSA group (p = 0.006). The frequency of revision surgery was 6.1%. Younger age and male sex were associated with revision (p < 0.001). CCI scores were higher among transfused patients than non-transfused patients (p < 0.001). The incidence of cemented RSA was 11.7% and 49% in 2016 and 2022, respectively. Differences were found among hospital types and geographical regions. While cemented RSA has been gaining attention and increased application in recent years for proximal humerus fractures, uncemented RSA still predominates. The choice between these 2 methods is largely influenced by regional and hospital-level factors. The type of RSA and high CCI scores were found to have no significant impact on the risk of surgical revision.

ASSESSMENT OF NEAR-REDUCTION UNION RATES WITH CONSERVATIVE HUMERUS FRACTURE TREATMENT

This study attempts to determine near-reduction union rates with non-operative treatment of humeral shaft fractures, assess alignment and functional outcomes, and compare these with historic and surgical management approaches. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study at the Department of Orthopedics, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, from January 2024 to June 2024. Twenty patients aged between 17–72 years who suffered from humeral shaft fractures were inducted through consecutive sampling. The conservative treatment mode was applied with a "U"-shaped coaptation splint, where alignment was assessed on radiographs, and functional outcome was achieved with a grading system. Data was analyzed using SPSS-20 regarding union rates, functional recovery, and factors influencing treatment success. Results: In this study of 20 fractures, the initial angulation was 30%, while deviations in sagittal plane alignment in the anterior or posterior direction were seen in 45%. Nineteen of these fractures united within an average time of 42 days in men and 44 days in women; one case showed a delayed union of 13 weeks. Functional results were also excellent, with 60% of patients achieving Grade V function, signifying the absence of pain or limitations, and 35% reporting Grade IV, meaning minimal limitations. Comparisons with historical studies showed that conservative management was similarly successful, with a high union rate and acceptable functional outcome in most cases noted. Conclusion: The conservative approach to treating humeral shaft fractures, characterized by limited immobilization with early mobilization, had a high union rate with excellent functional outcomes equal to surgical interventions. Success with treatment was considerably influenced by patient age, type of fracture, and degree of initial displacement, thus indicating that treatment has to be individualized. This study supports a conservative approach as a modality of choice in managing humeral shaft fractures, emphasizing individuated care for optimum recovery and satisfaction of patients.

Proximal humeral bone density assessment and prediction analysis using machine learning techniques: An innovative approach in medical research

BackgroundPatients with fractures of the proximal humerus often local complications and failures attributed to osteoporosis. Currently, there is a lack of straight forward screening methods for assessing the extent of local osteoporosis in the proximal humerus. This study utilizes machine learning techniques to establish a diagnostic approach for evaluating local osteoporosis by analyzing the patient's demographic data, bone density, and X-ray ratio of the proximal humerus. MethodsA cohort comprising a total of 102 hospitalized patients admitted during the period spanning from 2021 to 2023 underwent random selection procedures. Resulting in exclusion of 5 patients while enrolling 97 patients for analysis encompassing patient demographics, shoulder joint anteroposterior radiographs, and bone density information. Using the modified Tingart index methodology involving multiple measurements denoted as M1 through M4 obtained from humeral shafts. Within this cohort comprised 76 females (78.4 %) and 21 males (21.6 %), with an average age of 73.0 years (range: 43–98 years). There were 25 cases with normal bone density, 35 with osteopenia, and 37 with osteoporosis. Machine learning techniques were used to randomly divide the 97 cases into training (n = 59) and validation (n = 38) sets with a ratio of 6:4 using stratified random sampling. A decision tree model was built in the training set, and significant diagnostic indicators were selected, with the performance of the decision tree evaluated using the validation set. Multinomial logistic regression methods were used to verify the strength of the relationship between the selected indicators and osteoporosis. ResultsThe decision tree identified significant diagnostic indicators as the humeral shaft medullary cavity ratio M2/M4, age, and gender. M2/M4 ≥ 1.13 can be used as an important screening criterion; M2/M4 < 1.13 was predicted as local osteoporosis; M2/M4 ≥ 1.13 and age ≥83 years were also predicted as osteoporosis. M2/M4 ≥ 1.13 and age <64 years or males aged between 64 and 83 years were predicted as the normal population; M2/M4 ≥ 1.13 and females aged between 64 and 83 years were predicted as having osteopenia. The decision tree's accuracy in the training set was 0.7627 (95 % CI (0.6341, 0.8638)), and its accuracy in the test set was 0.7895 (95 % CI (0.6268, 0.9045)). Multinomial logistic regression results showed that humeral shaft medullary cavity ratios M2/M4, age, and gender in X-ray images were significantly associated with the occurrence of osteoporosis. ConclusionUtilizing X-ray data of the proximal humerus in conjunction with demographic information such as gender and age enable the prediction of localized osteoporosis, facilitating physicians' rapid comprehension of osteoporosis in patients and optimization of clinical treatment plans. Level of evidenceLevel IV retrospective case study.

Comparison the Results of Humerus Shaft Fractures Treated by Functional Bracing versus Dynamic Compression Plate

Introduction with Objective: To compare the results of humerus shaft fractures treated by functional bracing and dynamic compression plate. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was carried out at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chattogram from August 2019 to July 2021. All adult patients of closed diaphyseal fracture of humerus attending the Orthopaedics department, Chittagong Medical College Hospital during study period were the study population. Purposive sampling was done according to availability of the patients. Cases were divided in two groups; group A (dynamic compression plate) and group B (functional bracing). All the data were compiled and sorted properly and the quantitative data was analyzed statistically by using Statistical Package for Social Science. The results were expressed as percentage and mean ± SD and p&lt;0.05 was considered as the level of significant. Result: Average mean ± SD age was 40.22 ± 12.451 (range: 19-65) years. The mean age was 37.24 ± 10.686 in plating group and 43.20 ± 13.559 in bracing group. Out of 50 patients, 30 (60%) were male and 20 (40%) were female. Male was predominant in both groups (P=0.564). Regarding time taken for radiological union, average mean ± SD time was 15.32 ± 2.613 (range: 12-22) weeks. The mean time for radiological union was 14.91 ± 2.712 weeks in plating group and 15.76 ± 2.488 weeks in bracing group. Regarding ROM of shoulder &amp; elbow, there was statistically nonsignificant difference found between the groups except shoulder flexion (P= 0.031s), abduction(P=0.025s) &amp; extension(P=0.041s) more on plating group. QUICK-DASH score at 3 month shows highly significant difference between the study groups (p=0.001). At 6 and 12 month significant difference was found between the groups. Out of 44 patients at 12 months follow-up, 19 (43.2%) patient’s functional outcome was excellent and 10 (22.7%) patient’s functional outcome was good. Statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.022). Conclusion: This study observed that functional outcome was relatively better in patients treated by dynamic compression plate in adult diaphyseal fracture of humerus. Medicine Today 2024, Vol.36 (2): 82-86

Primary Elbow Arthroplasty in the Management of Complex Distal Humerus Fractures.

Introduction Complex distal humerus fractures pose significant challenges in orthopedic surgery, especially when traditional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is not feasible. Primary elbow arthroplasty has emerged as an alternative treatment option for these fractures, but its application remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes, patient selection criteria, and follow-up results of primary elbow arthroplasty in the management of complex distal humerus fractures. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 15 patients who underwent primary elbow arthroplasty for Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type C distal humerus fractures between 2017 and 2023 at our institution. Inclusion criteria were patients aged 18 years or older who were offered either total elbow or hemiarthroplasty for acute complex distal humerus fracture. Data were collected from patient medical records, including demographic information, fracture classification, surgical details, and postoperative follow-up. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Oxford Elbow Score (OES) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Complications were documented, and descriptive statistics were used to summarise the findings. Results The mean age of the patients was 71.8 years (IQR 17 years), with 12 females and three males. The mean time to surgery was 14.7 days post-injury (IQR: 12 days). The mean follow-up duration was 52 weeks (range: 8-234 weeks, IQR: 27 weeks) and variability was noted. The mean flexion-extension arc at the final follow-up was 93° (IQR: 32.5°). The mean OES was 46 (IQR: 22), and the mean MEPS was 75 (IQR: 37), indicating good to excellent functional outcomes. Scores for two patients were not available due to dementia. Reported complications included one case of ulnar sensory symptoms and one case requiring metalwork removal following olecranon osteotomy. Conclusion Primary elbow arthroplasty provides a viable treatment option for complex distal humerus fractures, demonstrating significant functional improvements and high patient satisfaction. However, the variability in follow-up and subjective decision-making underscores the need for standardized protocols. Future multicenter, prospective studies with larger cohorts and standardized follow-up protocols are recommended to confirm these findings and optimize patient care.

Comparison of the functional outcome of Philos Plate Vs. external fixator in the management of proximal humerus fracture

Background: Proximal humerus fractures, are a major medical issue that are relatively prevalent. 4-5% of all fractures are proximal humeral fractures, most of which involve older and osteoporotic individuals. Objectives: To compare the functional outcome of philos plate vs. external fixator in the management of proximal humerus fracture. Material and Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore. From November 23, 2022, to May 23, 2023. After approval from the hospital's ethical board, 112(56 per group) patients were included in the study through an emergency. Informed consent was taken from parents. We stratified patients into two groups. Group A received the treatment of Philos, while Group B received the external fixator treatment. Functional outcome was assessed at the end of 3 months postoperatively using constant shoulder score. The collected data were entered and analyzed accordingly using SPSS version 27. Results: In the current study, a total of 112 patients included underwent two surgical interventions, among these, 56 patients underwent Philos plating while an equal number of patients underwent external fixation. In Group A and B, the majority were males (37:47) out of 112. The mean age of patients was equal in both groups (Group A=44.36±11.71), and the mean age of patients was (Group A=44.88±10.05), ranging from 20 to 80 years. In Group A, the average BMI was less than 24.29±4.23, ranging from 18-35 kg/m2, compared to Group B, 28.89±3.77, ranging from 22-35 kg/m2. 38(67.9%) were effected from right side as in Group A while 41(73.2%) were effected from right side in Group B. Majoruty 28(50.0%) had history of RTA in Group A while patients 24(42.9%) were observed with history of RTA in Group B25(44.6%) cases reported excellent outcome, 6(10.7%) reported very good outcome, 16(21.4%) good, 7(12.5%) fair and 2(3.6%) poor outcome in Group A. In Group B, 36(64.3%) excellent, 7(12.5%) very good, 12(21.4%) cases reported Good and 1(1%) reported fair outcome. So it is concluded that 25(44.6%) cases reported excellent outcome in Group A, comparatively low as compared to Group B 36(64.3%). Only age was significantly associated with excellent outcomes as p&lt;.05. Conclusion: It is concluded that External fixation demonstrated a better outcome as compared to Philos Plating, so in Orthopaedic practice, External fixation should be preferred for patients diagnosed with proximal humerus fracture to get better results and reduce the complications.

Total elbow arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly: Experience from a tertiary referral centre

BackgroundThere is no clear consensus on whether total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) is superior for treating distal humerus fractures in the elderly. This study analysed the functional outcomes and re-operation rates following TEA and HA for intra-articular distal humerus fractures in patients aged ≥65 years. Methods19 patients (TEA = 12, HA = 7) treated between 2016 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Mean age was 73 years and mean follow-up was 46 months. Functional outcomes and quality of life were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Quick-DASH (Q-DASH), Oxford Elbow Score (OES), SF-12 Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS), and EQ-5D. Complications requiring re-operation were recorded. ResultsHA showed superior outcomes in MEPS (93.6 vs 75.0, p = 0.0339), Q-DASH (13.3 vs 31.3, p = 0.0182), OES (41.7 vs 33.2, p = 0.0346), SF-12 PCS (55.5 vs 36.9, p = 0.0008) and EQ-5D (83 vs 67, p = 0.0023). One HA patient required revision to TEA for prosthetic joint infection. One TEA patient required revision for a periprosthetic ulna fracture. ConclusionHA provides better functional outcomes compared to TEA in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly. Data is limited by selection bias and low patient numbers with a multicentre randomised controlled trial warranted.

An audit of treatment of proximal humerus fractures type 3 and 4 of Neer classification in a resource-poor setting in Sub-Saharan Africa

An audit of treatment of proximal humerus fractures type 3 and 4 of Neer classification in a resource-poor setting in Sub-Saharan Africa

Comparative Analysis of Functional and Surgical Outcomes in Humeral Shaft Fractures: Interlocking Nailing vs. Dynamic Compression Plating

Background: Humeral shaft fractures account for about 3-5% of all fractures, with a 3.87% incidence in Bangladesh. These fractures often respond well to non-operative treatments like casts and braces due to the humerus's ability to tolerate malunion, leading to satisfactory outcomes. However, surgery is necessary for specific cases, including open, segmental, or pathological fractures, and when conservative treatment fails. Surgical options, like dynamic compression plates and interlocking nails, allow for quicker recovery but carry risks, including nerve damage and mechanical failure. Interlocking nails offer a less invasive option with better biomechanics but may cause shoulder complications. Aim of the study: This study aims to compare the functional and surgical outcomes of patients treated with dynamic compression plating versus those treated with interlocking nailing, to determine the most effective approach for managing humeral shaft fractures. Methods: This cross-sectional study in Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Bangladesh, conducted from [11/12/2022] to [20/12/2023], involved 60 patients with humerus diaphyseal fractures, divided into two groups: Group A (30 patients treated with dynamic compression plating) and Group B (30 patients treated with interlock nailing). Participants were selected based on strict inclusion/exclusion criteria, and informed consent was obtained. The study evaluated various clinical factors using standard surgical techniques. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, with significance determined at p &lt;0.05. Result: A prospective observational study at a tertiary care center involved 60 patients with humeral diaphyseal fractures, divided into two groups: 30 treated with dynamic compression plating (Group A) and 30 with interlocking nailing (Group B). Most participants were under 30, predominantly male, with no significant differences in age or gender distribution. Group B showed better blood management, while Group A had superior shoulder function but more shoulder stiffness. Both groups had similar operative times, elbow performance, and fracture union rates. Neurovascular deficits were more common in Group A. The study highlights different outcomes between the two treatment methods. Conclusion: This study evaluated clinical outcomes in patients, primarily under 30 years old, with a higher incidence in males and right-sided fractures. Dynamic compression plating led to longer surgeries, more significant blood loss, higher union rates, and more shoulder stiffness. Interlock nailing resulted in fewer neurovascular deficits but reduced shoulder function postoperatively.

Minimally invasive techniques utilizing the “Joy Stick” method for managing irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in older children

ObjectiveIn this study, we investigated the efficacy of percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in older children with irreducible supracondylar flexion-type fractures of the humerus.MethodsThis retrospective investigation included 27 children, comprising 15 males and 12 females, aged between 10 years and 3 months to 14 years and 11 months, all diagnosed with a flexion-type supracondylar fracture of the humerus within one week of trauma. All patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia. Following unsuccessful manual reduction, percutaneous poking reduction with Kirschner wires was performed under C-arm fluoroscopy to achieve fracture reduction. Following successful reduction, three 2.0 mm Kirschner wires were inserted in a cross pattern to secure the fracture ends. Postoperatively, the elbow joint was immobilized in a functional position with a plaster cast for four weeks.ResultsFollow-up in the outpatient department ranged from 9 to 36 months. Clinical functional assessment using Flynn’s criteria rated 24 cases as excellent, 2 as good, and 1 as fair, yielding an overall efficacy of 96.3%. No cases of fracture re-displacement, fracture fragment necrosis, or other complications such as nonunion, iatrogenic nerve injury, myositis ossificans, or long-term elbow joint dysfunction were observed during the postoperative follow-up.ConclusionThe percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation technique is a simple and reliable procedure for treating irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in older children, with minimal trauma. This technique offers substantial stability for the fracture and results in excellent long-term recovery of joint function.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Review of Current Evidence.

The aim of this review is to summarize information published in the recent peer-reviewed literature on reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for proximal humerus fractures. Although there is still some debate regarding which may be the best treatment for proximal humerus fractures in certain age ranges, RSA seems to offer more predictable results than other surgical treatments for elderly patients. Successful tuberosity healing seems to correlate with better outcomes. Recent trends indicate interest in cementless fixation, fracture-specific stems and a 135-degree polyethylene opening angle. RSA provides a successful surgical solution for selected proximal humerus fractures. Indications, design features, and surgical execution have continued to evolve over the last few years.

Results of transosseous suture fixation in four-part valgus impacted fractures of the proximal humerus

BackgroundThe osteonecrosis ratio in valgus impacted fractures of the proximal humerus is low (<10 %), giving osteosynthesis all its meaning. However, the optimal fixation technique remains controversial. After recentering the humeral head, osteosuture is stable enough to allow bone healing in an adequate position as well as a good long-term shoulder functionality. MethodsOur cohort included 22 patients with a mean age of 65 (28–83). Patients were placed in a beach-chair position. Surgical exposure was done through an anterolateral, transdeltoid approach. Stay sutures were placed on both tuberosities. Elevation of the humeral head was obtained for 9 patients using iliac crest bone graft, for 7 patients using bone substitutes, for 6 without any graft needed. Both tuberosities were approximated and tied together using two horizontal non-absorbable double-threaded sutures. The whole head was also tied to the humeral metaphysis by cerclage wiring using the same suture. Patients were immobilized in a sling for 4 weeks with no passive or active mobilization; then began rehabilitation starting with passive and active-assisted mobilization. Functional outcome was assessed with the Constant score. Radiographic follow-up was used for fracture healing and osteonecrosis signs. ResultsAll fractures united within the first 3 months. One patient had radiographic signs of osteonecrosis and one had a secondary displaced fracture without osteonecrosis. At an average follow-up of 35 months, the median Constant score was 83.7 % (63–100) in comparison to the uninjured side. DiscussionA preserved posteromedial periosteal hinge in a valgus impacted fracture of the proximal humerus is key to the success of osteosuture. This hinge provides mechanical stability to the humeral head once elevated, as well as blood-supply from the branches of the posterior circumflex humeral artery. Computed Tomography with Three-Dimensional reconstructed images allow for a precise analysis of this hinge as well as the vascularity of the humeral head. Osteosuture being a minimally invasive surgical procedure plays a predominant role in sparing the remaining vascularization of the humeral head. ConclusionOsteosuture in four-part valgus impacted fractures of the proximal humerus is a minimally invasive procedure as well as a reliable technique yielding good long-term results.

Comparison of classical and minimally invasive superolateral approach for reconstruction of proximal humerus fractures with locking plates

ContextMinimally invasive (MI) approaches are purported to present advantages for osteosynthesis when compared with conventional approaches. This study aimed to compare the medium-term clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with proximal humerus fractures treated by plate osteosynthesis with conventional and MI superolateral approaches. MethodThe study carried out was a retrospective monocentric comparative analysis. Forty-three cases were followed up – 18 were treated with an MI approach and 25 with a conventional approach. Constant-Murley, DASH and SSV scores were established and standard complications were investigated. ResultsNo significant differences in functional scores or complications were found between the 2 groups. The only significant difference was for pain which was significantly lower for the MI group. The overall revision rate was 18.3 %. The mean adjusted Constant-Murley for the entire population was 80.1 ± 20.2; the mean DASH score was 17.8 ± 15.9 and the mean SSV was 73.2 ± 19.5. ConclusionThis study did not demonstrate any significant differences between the 2 approaches. Given the low patient population in our series, the superiority of the MI approach – as indicated in the literature – was not proven.