4-part Proximal Humeral Fractures Research Articles

Conservative treatment of 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures: Can poor outcomes be predicted?

3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures are frequently treated conservatively. This study aims to combine radiographic, and patient reported outcome data to identify factors leading to poor outcomes following conservative treatment. A retrospective local database analysis identified 3- and 4-part fractures. Radiographic and functional outcomes including Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), QuickDash (QD), Subjective Shoulder Score (SSV) and VAS pain scores were collected. 104 patients were included at mean follow-up of 55months. Analysis highlighted significant OSS differences in 3- versus 4-part (p = 0.027), dominant arm injury (p = 0.046), age > 65 (p = 0.006), varus coronal neck-shaft angle < 115 versus 115-155 degrees (p = 0.008), posterior head tilt > 155 degrees (p = 0.005), greater tuberosity (GT) displacement > 5mm (p = 0.001), GT comminution (p = 0.01), medial calcar hinge displacement > 2mm (p = 0.032). According to QD scores; age > 65 (p = 0.012), varus neck-shaft angle (p = 0.01), GT displacement > 5mm (p = 0.001), GT comminution (p = 0.01), medial calcar hinge displacement > 2mm (p = 0.006). SSV varied significantly with 3- versus 4-part fractures (p = 0.005), age > 65 (p = 0.04), varus neck-shaft angle (p = 0.001), posterior head tilt (p = 0.005), GT displacement > 5mm (p = 0.001), GT comminution (p = 0.003), and medial calcar hinge displacement > 2mm (p = 0.001). We highlight risk factors for unfavourable outcomes following conservative management, aiding surgeons in shared decision-making and patient expectation management.

P35: A Systematic review on the outcomes of the reverse shoulder arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty for the 3- and 4- part proximal humeral fractures in the elderly population

Abstract Background The hemiarthroplasty (HA) and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) are common surgical methods in of the proximal humerus management, where the surgical fixation is not feasible. Our aim is to analyse the most recent data to inform choices on best management for managing 3- and 4 -part fracture dislocations of the proximal humeral fractures in the elderly population. Methods The Medline, PubMed and Scopus databases were searched in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify the relevant literature to include for analysis. The inclusion criteria involved English language, functional outcomes, revision rates, hemiarthroplasty, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. The exclusion criteria were publications before 2018, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, other management options such as conservative management, surgical fixation, and total anatomical shoulder replacement. Results The data collected included study design and level of evidence, number of patients and patients’ characteristics, follow-up time post-surgery, functional outcomes, range of movement, Constant score, subjective scores including Disability of Arm and Shoulder (QuickDASH) and American Shoulder and Elbow Score (ASES), and revision rates. Conclusions The evidence suggests that RTSA is the new gold standard management for 3- and 4-part fracture dislocations of the proximal humerus in a selected group of patients over 65 years old with irreparable rotator cuff. The available literature is medium quality, requiring more robust evidence including prospective large cohort studies utilising unified objective and subjective functional outcome scores.

Clinical outcomes of a novel ‘all-suture’ fixation for valgus-impacted proximal humeral fractures

Background Conventional techniques for the fixation of displaced proximal humeral fractures include the use of locking plates, intramedullary nailing, hemiarthroplasty and reverse shoulder replacement. Valgus-impacted fractures are a common subtype of proximal humeral fracture, but there are few publications concerning the outcomes of treatment. This study aims to review outcomes following an ‘all-suture’ technique for this fracture subtype without the use of transosseous sutures. Methods All patients over the age of 18 who presented with 3- or 4-part valgus-impacted proximal humeral fractures and who underwent ‘all-suture’ repair at our centre were included. We reviewed their post-operative imaging and collected data on post-operative complications and patient-reported outcome measures. Results We identified 15 patients who had undergone all-suture fixation. The cohort's mean age was 56. Eleven patients were female. Eight patients had 3-part fractures and seven patients had 4-part fractures. There were no major post-operative complications. All fractures united. The mean Oxford Shoulder Score was 43.7 and the mean Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation score was 85.9 at the final follow-up. Discussion Our results suggest that all-suture fixation of proximal humeral fractures presents an attractive alternative to conventional techniques, whilst avoiding complications relating to metalwork implantation.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty versus non-surgical treatment for older adults with acute 3- or 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (PROFHER-2: PROximal Fracture of Humerus Evaluation by Randomisation – Trial Number 2)

BackgroundProximal humerus fractures (PHF) are common and painful injuries, with the majority resulting from falls from a standing height. As with other fragility fractures, its age-specific incidence is increasing. Surgical treatment with hemiarthroplasty (HA) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have been increasingly used for displaced 3- and 4-part fractures despite a lack of good quality evidence as to whether one type of arthroplasty is superior to the other, and whether surgery is better than non-surgical management. The PROFHER-2 trial has been designed as a pragmatic, multicentre randomised trial to compare the clinical and cost-effectiveness of RSA vs HA vs Non-Surgical (NS) treatment in patients with 3- and 4-part PHF.MethodsAdults over 65 years of age presenting with acute radiographically confirmed 3- or 4-part fractures, with or without associated glenohumeral joint dislocation, who consent for trial participation will be recruited from around 40 National Health Service (NHS) Hospitals in the UK. Patients with polytrauma, open fractures, presence of axillary nerve palsy, pathological (other than osteoporotic) fractures, and those who are unable to adhere to trial procedures will be excluded. We will aim to recruit 380 participants (152 RSA, 152 HA, 76 NS) using 2:2:1 (HA:RSA:NS) randomisation for 3- or 4-part fractures without joint dislocation, and 1:1 (HA:RSA) randomisation for 3- or 4-part fracture dislocations. The primary outcome is the Oxford Shoulder Score at 24 months. Secondary outcomes include quality of life (EQ-5D-5L), pain, range of shoulder motion, fracture healing and implant position on X-rays, further procedures, and complications. Independent Trial Steering Committee and Data Monitoring Committee will oversee the trial conduct, including the reporting of adverse events and harms.DiscussionThe PROFHER-2 trial is designed to provide a robust answer to guide the treatment of patients aged 65 years or over who sustain 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures. The pragmatic design and recruitment from around 40 UK NHS hospitals will ensure immediate applicability and generalisability of the trial findings. The full trial results will be made available in a relevant open-access peer-reviewed journal.Trial registrationISRCTN76296703. Prospectively registered on 5th April 2018

Is there still a place for anatomic hemiarthroplasty in patients with high functional demands in primary, nonreconstructable proximal humeral fractures? A clinical and radiographic assessment

Vitality-threatening proximal humerus fractures often provide an indication for prosthetic treatment. We investigated the issue of how anatomic hemiprostheses perform in younger, functionally challenging patients with the use of a specific fracture stem and systematic tuberosity management in medium-term follow-up. Thirteen skeletally mature patients with a mean age of 64±9years and a minimum follow-up of 1year after primary open-stem hemiarthroplasty for 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures were included. All patients were followed up regarding their clinical course. Radiologic follow-up included fracture classification, healing of tuberosities, proximal migration of the humeral head, evidence of stem loosening, and glenoid erosion. Functional follow-up included range of motion, pain, objective and subjective performance scores, complications, and return to sports rates. We statistically compared treatment success based on the Constant score between the cohort with proximal migration and the cohort with regular acromiohumeral distance by means of the Mann-Whitney U test. After an average follow-up period of 4.8years, satisfactory results were obtained. The absolute Constant-Murley score was 73.2±12.4 points. The disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand score was 13.2±13.0 points. Patients reported their mean subjective shoulder value as 86.6%±8.5%. Pain was reported as 1.1±1.3 points on a visual analog scale. Flexion, abduction, and external rotation values were 138±31°, 134±34°, and 32±17°, respectively. 84.6% of the referred tuberosities healed successfully. Proximal migration was observed in 38.5% of cases and was associated with worse Constant score results (P=.065). No patient showed signs of loosening. Mild glenoid erosion was apparent in 4 patients (30.8%). All patients who were interviewed and participated in sports before surgery were able to return to their primary sport after surgery and continued to do so during the final follow-up. With narrow indications, use of a specific fracture stem and adequate tuberosity management, successful radiographic and functional results are presented after a mean follow-up of 4.8years after hemiarthroplasty for primary nonreconstructable humeral head fractures. Accordingly, open-stem hemiarthroplasty appears to remain a possible alternative to reverse shoulder arthroplasty in younger, functionally challenging patients with primary 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures.

Technique and clinical results of a new intramedullary support nail and plate system for fixation of 3- or 4- part proximal humeral fractures in older adults

BackgroundInternal fixation of complex proximal humeral fractures (PHF) with osteoporosis is associated with a high incidence of complications. This study introduces the technique and clinical results of a novel intramedullary support nail and plate system (ISNPs) for the internal fixation of 3- or 4- part PHF in older adults. The ISNPs combines the concept of intramedullary support and dynamic fixation into a locking plate fixation system that can be applied using a minimally invasive surgical approach.MethodsA total of 46 consecutive patients diagnosed with 3- or 4-part PHF that met the criteria were included in this study, including 18 in the ISNPs group and 28 in the conventional locking plate (LP) group. Clinical results, including operative time, intraoperative bleeding, reduction quality, subjective outcome ratings, and complications, were compared between the two groups. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Constant score and disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire at 1-year follow-up.ResultsThere were no significant differences in age, sex, local bone quality, Neer-fracture type, and follow-up time between the ISNPs and LP groups. For clinical analysis, there were no significant differences in intraoperative bleeding and operation time between the ISNPs and LP groups. Significant differences were observed in the percentage of the malreduced cases, Constant and DASH score analysis, and the patients’ subjective evaluation (‘excellent’ and ‘good’ %) between the two groups.ConclusionThe ISNPs technique proposed in this study provides a novel hybrid internal fixation model for complex PHF with osteoporosis. The clinical results at 1-year follow-up confirmed the advantage of applying it to 3- or 4- part PHF in older patients. Further studies are required to optimize its design and explore its optimal indications.

A Transosseous Suture as an Alternative to Suture Anchor on Anterior-Avulsion Greater Tuberosity Fragment Fixation in Neer Three-Part Proximal Humeral Fracture: A Biomechanical Study.

Greater tuberosity (GT) fragments were communicated, and additional techniques to increase the GT fragment stability after the locking plate fixation was necessary. This study aimed to analyze the reinforcement effects on the anterior-avulsion GT fragment in Neer three-part proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) using transosseous suture and suture anchor techniques. Eighteen fresh-frozen human cadaveric shoulder specimens were used in the study. Standardized fracture of the GT and surgical neck was created in 18 human cadaveric proximal humerus. The GT fragments were reinforced with transosseous suture (TS), suture anchor (SA), and suture in addition to the PHILOS plate fixation. The fixed humerus was tested by applying static loading to the supraspinatus tendon. Load forces and fragment displacement were evaluated by a biomechanical testing machine, and the load to 3- and 5-mm displacements, load to failure, and mode of failure were recorded for all specimens. Nonparametric variables were examined by the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Bonferroni post hoc test was used to analyze the mean loads to create 3- and 5-mm displacements as well as the failure load. The age, female proportion, and bone mineral density showed no statistically significant differences between the three groups. The mean loading force to create 3-mm and 5-mm displacement in the TS group (254.9 ± 77.4, 309.6 ± 152.7) were significantly higher than those in the suture group (136.1 ± 16.7, 193.4 ± 14.5) (P=0.024, P=0.005). For the SA group, the force to create 3- and 5-mm displacement (204.3 ± 60.9, 307.8 ± 73.5) were comparable to those in the TS group (P = 0.236, P=0.983). Moreover, the loading force to failure in the TS group (508.6 ± 217.7) and SA group (406.6 ± 114.9) was significantly higher than that in the suture group (265.9 ± 52.1) (P=0.021, P=0.024). In the TS group, three failed due to tendon-bone junction rupture; bone tunnel broken occurred in two specimens; suture rupture could also be seen in one specimen. All specimens in the suture group failed because of suture rupture. In the SA group, three specimens failed due to suture rupture; two failed secondary to tendon-bone junction rupture; and one failed because of shaft fracture. Transosseous suture is a new type of reinforcement for GT fragment in Neer-three part PHFs. The transosseous suture was superior to the suture only in the reinforcement of the anterior-avulsion GT fragment of Neer three-part PHFs, and it had comparable biomechanical strength to the suture anchor.

Different treatments for 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures in the elderly patients: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BackgroundProximal humeral fractures are the third most common fracture in the body, and their incidence is rising year by year as the population ages. However, the treatment of the proximal humerus in parts 3 and 4 is still debatable, necessitating a network meta-analysis to determine the best treatment for each treatment modality.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials on proximal humeral fractures up to June 21, 2022. We performed data extraction and literature quality assessment by two independent authors and extracted constant score and reoperation rate as indicators for evaluation. Stata software, Revman software, JAGS software and the R-based BlandAltmanLeh package, gemtc package and riags package were used to perform this Bayesian network meta-analysis.ResultsFollowing screening, 11 papers with a total of 648 participants were included in the analysis. The SUCRA values for the constant score were in the following order: RSA, IMN, Conservative, HA, and LP, and the SUCRA values for the reoperation rate were LP, HA, IMN, Conservative, and RSA.ConclusionThe elderly with 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures should consider RSA because it received the best evaluation ranking in terms of constant score and reoperation rate. Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022341209, identifier: CRD42022341209.

Focus on stability: biomechanical evaluation of external fixation technique versus locking plate osteosynthesis in 3-part proximal humeral fractures.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the primary stability and displacement tendencies of an external fixation system in 2 different configurations in comparison to locking plate fixation in a 3-part proximal humeral fracture model. Twenty-one fresh-frozen human cadaveric proximal humeral specimens were divided into 3 groups of 7 stripped specimens. An unstable3-part fracture of the proximal humerus was set. Construct A consisted of the Galaxy Fixation Shoulder System, with fixation in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended technique (3 pairs of threaded wires). Construct B was fixed with an additional pair of threaded wires according to the recommendations of Gumina etal (4 pairs of threaded wires). The remaining 7 specimens were fixed with a locking plate. By use of an optical motion capture system, relative motion at the fracture site and failure load were evaluated during a cyclic loading protocol. Plate osteosynthesis showed the highest cyclic load to failure (895±239 N; range, 597-1135 N), followed by construct B (692 ± 121 N; range, 432-788 N) and construct A (350 ± 190 N; range, 139-615 N). Statistically significant differences were found between plating and construct A (P < .001), between plating and construct B (P = .031), and between construct B and construct A (P = .013). Relative motion at the fracture site, in terms of change in distance during cyclic loading, was lowest with construct B measured at the peak load of 395 N after 11 steps (1.73 ± 1.98 mm; range, 0.53-5.96 mm) and highest with construct A (8.46 ± 10.67 mm; range, 2.26-20.79 mm). Angular change measured at the peak load after 11 steps was lowest with construct B (1.19° ± 0.36°; range, 0.59°-1.7°) and highest with construct A (2.44° ± 1.63°; range, 0.77°-4.04°). Statistically significant differences were found between construct A and construct B and between construct A and plating at various steps of cyclic loading. In this biomechanical study of unstable3-part proximal humeral fractures, locking plate osteosynthesis demonstrated the highest possible load application. External fixator application with 8 threaded wires (construct B) revealed the least relative motion at the fracture site, without a statistically significant difference compared with locking plates. It therefore represents another valid technique for treatment regarding primary stability. The use of external fixator application with 6 threaded wires (construct A) resulted in the lowest stability and the highest rates of displacement.

Outcomes of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasties Performed for Proximal Humeral Fractures Versus Elective Etiologies.

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty is commonly performed for elective indications, such as cuff tear arthropathies, salvage arthropathies and tumours with excellent outcomes. However, its use in treating acute conditions such as 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures in the elderly has been more controversial. The aim of our study is to directly compare the short-term intra-operative and post-operative outcomes of RTSA for traumatic proximal humeral fractures as compared to elective shoulder arthroplasty. We retrospectively identified 78 consecutive patients who had undergone RTSA from 2009 to 2018 at a tertiary hospital. These patients were classified by etiology as either elective or trauma cases. Comparative analysis of the baseline demographics, as well as post-operative surgical, functional and range-of-movement outcomes between the two groups was performed. 57 Patients made up the elective cohort and 14 patients made up the trauma cohort. The elective cohort was significantly older compared to the traumatic fracture cohort (73.2 vs 78.6, p = 0.026). No significant differences were observed when comparing post-operative surgical outcomes. At 6months, the elective cohort demonstrated greater forward flexion (105.8° vs 127.2°, p = 0.041), as well as higher SF-36 PCS (27.85 vs 43.99, p = 0.018) and ASES scores (35.5 vs 76.31, p = 0.009). However, these differences resolved by 1-year post-op and no significant differences were noted comparing functional and range-of-movement outcomes at 1-year post-op. Our study suggests that the application of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in the management of traumatic humeral fractures may produce similarly favourable 1-year outcomes to that performed for elective etiologies. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-022-00625-4.

Anatomical study for the treatment of proximal humeral fracture through the medial approach

BackgroundThe treatment of complex 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures has been controversial due to numerous postoperative complications. With the further study of medial support and blood supply of humeral head, new techniques and conception are developing. The study aims to illustrate the medial approach of the proximal humeral fracture through cadaver autopsy.MethodUpper limbs from 19 cadavers have been dissected to expose the shoulder joint. We selected the coracoid process as the bony reference. Vernier caliper will be used to measure the following data, including distance from coracoid process to circumflex brachial artery, distance between anterior humeral circumflex artery (ACHA) and posterior circumflex brachial artery (PCHA) and their diameters. Assessment included the characteristics of the vascular supply around the humeral head, identification of the structures at risk, quality of exposure of the bony structures, and feasibility of fixation.ResultsThe medial approach is appropriate in 86.84% anatomical patterns. Between the lower part of the shoulder capsule and the insertion of conjoined tendon, the bony surface exposed was limited by the interval between ACHA and PCHA. An interval of 2 to 3 cm (24.29 ± 3.42 mm) was available for medial plate. ACHA (49.35 ± 8.13 mm, 35.14–68.53 mm) and PCHA (49.62 ± 7.82 mm, 37.67–66.76 mm) were about 5 cm away from the coracoid process. Risk structures including ACHA and PCHA originate in common, PCHA originated from the deep brachial artery (DBA), the presence of perforator vessels, musculocutaneous nerve intersects with ACHA, the diameter of PCHA: ACHA < 1.5. In 13.15% anatomical patterns, this risk structure should be taken seriously.ConclusionThe medial approach opens a new perspective in the optimal management of complex fractures of proximal humerus. Anatomical research proves that the medial approach is feasible. The interval between ACHA and PCHA is suitable for placement. Anatomical pattern and indication have been discussed, and we hypothesized that ACHA has been destroyed in complex PHFs. With further studies on the anatomy and mechanism of injury, the development of more clinical cases will be an important work of our institution in the future.

Clinical outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for elective indications versus acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has continued to increase in clinical utility and popularity as an effective treatment for cuff tear arthropathy (CTA), irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs), osteoarthritis, and acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures. Performing RTSA for acute proximal humeral fractures presents the unique challenges of tuberosity management, bone loss, and instability compared with elective indications such as CTA or irreparable RCTs. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes, active range of motion (ROM), radiographic outcomes, and complications between patients undergoing elective RTSA (RTSA-E) and those undergoing RTSA for fracture (RTSA-F). A systematic review of the literature was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We queried 3 electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed) using the search term "reverse" AND "shoulder" AND "arthroplasty." Studies investigating the clinical outcomes of RTSA for traumatic and/or elective indications were included. Studies were excluded if they included RTSA performed for fracture sequelae, inflammatory arthritis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, or avascular necrosis. Data collected included patient demographic characteristics, subjective outcome measurements, ROM, and complications. The pooled means and proportions along with their 95% confidence intervals were generated by a random-effects model that incorporated the between-study variations in weighting. A total of 134 studies (11,651 shoulders) investigating the clinical outcomes of RTSA-E patients and 66 studies (3117 shoulders) investigating RTSA-F patients were included in this systematic review. Analysis of patient-reported outcomes demonstrated that RTSA-F patients experienced significantly lower Constant scores than RTSA-E patients; however, relative Constant scores, Simple Shoulder Test scores, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, and visual analog scale pain scores were similar. RTSA-F patients also had significantly lower forward elevation, abduction, and external rotation. RTSA-F patients experienced tuberosity complications at a significantly higher rate than RTSA-E patients (25.9% vs. 4.1%). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of other complications such as heterotopic ossification, radiographic loosening, revision, nerve injury, postoperative stiffness, infection, dislocation, and component loosening. RTSA performed for acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures yields overall worse clinical outcomes and active ROM compared with RTSA performed for elective indications including CTA, massive irreparable RCTs, and osteoarthritis with deformity. Tuberosity healing may be a major contributing factor to the difference in clinical outcomes. In the setting of RTSA-F, patient and surgeon expectations may need to be tempered and appropriate measures undertaken to optimize tuberosity healing.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with a humeral inclination of 135º for treatment of 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures: Clinical analysis with minimum follow-up of 2 years

Background: The reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is indicated for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PUF). To present day, there are limited data regarding the difference in functional outcomes of the RSA with a humeral inclination of 135º or 155º, in fracture context. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively analyze the functional outcomes of complex PUF treated with RSA with a humeral inclination of 135º. Materials and Methods: We carried out a retrospective study in which we analyzed 22 patients with PUF, who underwent RSA with a humeral inclination of 135º, between January 2017 and June 2019. Functional outcomes were measured through the Q-DASH and ASES scores. The Constant-Murley score (CS), active elevation (AA), abduction (ABD), internal rotation (IR), external rotation (ER), and abduction strength were obtained in both arms, using the contralateral shoulder as an estimative of preinjury function. Results: The patients were followed for a mean of 39.5 months. Seven patients were pain-free while performing their daily activities. Thirteen referred minor pain in their usual activities and 2 reported moderate to very severe pain. The mean ASES and Quick-DASH scores were 80% and 18.1 points, respectively. The CS was 59 points, 13 points less than the nonoperated side. The average AA was 128º, ABD 123º, ER 27º, and IR 36º. We found no correlation between the age and ASES score or Q-DASH score and between ER and ASES or Q-DASH score, but we found a positive correlation between ASES score or Q-DASH score and AA, ABD and IR. Conclusion: RSA is a valid and reliable option in selected elderly patients with complex PUF. The choice of the RSA humeral inclination (135º Vs 155º) does not currently have defined criteria, and there are no studies with sufficient statistical power to validate one of these options.

Clinical and radiological outcome of 3- and 4-part proximal humerus fracture managed with J nails in elderly osteoporotic individuals

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Proximal humeral fracture is 3rd most common fracture in elderly population. Selection of appropriate implant is always challenging to get optimum results in these osteoporotic bones. Though locking plates are gold standard, major complications range from 9% to 36%. To study clinical and radiological outcome of J nail technique for Neer’s three or four part proximal humeral fractures in patients more than 60 years age.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; We retrospectively studied 60 patients of 3 or 4 part proximal humeral fractures, &amp;gt;60 years of age treated with J nail technique from the period of 2015 to 2017. J nails were made using 2 mm 12 inches blunt tip Lambrinudi wires. At final follow-up, clinical outcome was assessed using constant score and radiological evaluation was done according to the Bahr criteria.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The mean constant score at final follow-up was 90. The postoperative reduction was excellent in 98% of patients and remained excellent in 90%. The mean postoperative neck shaft angle was 135.0° and final neck shaft angle was 131.4°. No deep infection was seen. No avascular necrosis of humeral head was found till follow up to 2 years.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Our study suggests that the functional and radiological outcomes obtained with J nailing are excellent and similar to locking plates and percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation with many other advantages of being simple, minimally invasive, avoiding muscle transfixation and no pin site infections.&lt;/p&gt;

Functional outcome evaluation of Neer’s two part and three part proximal humeral fractures treated by percutaneous K-wire fixation in a tertiary care hospital in North India: a prospective study of 21 patients

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; The treatment of proximal humeral fractures is controversial. The advantages of percutaneous Kirschner’s wire (K-wire) fixation include preservation of periosteal blood supply, minimal blood loss, less soft tissue damage and shorter hospital stay. The aim of this study was to evaluate the 2 part and 3 part proximal humeral fractures in terms of functional outcome at final follow up.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This was a prospective study of 21 patients aged 20 to 60 years with mean age of 44.2 years including two part and three part proximal humeral fractures based on Neer’s classification, treated by percutaneous K-wire fixation. Functional outcome was assessed by Constant-Murley score at 1 year follow up.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; On the basis of Neer’s classification, 13 patients had 2 part fracture, 8 patients had 3 part fracture. Radiological union was achieved within 7 to 15.2 weeks, with an average of 11.6 weeks. The mean constant score at 1 year follow up was 78.2, range (42 to 96). In the present study, complications were seen in 8 (38.1%) patients. The results were in proximity with the existing literature.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Percutaneous fixation is minimally invasive technique with preservation of periosteal blood supply, minimal blood loss, less soft tissue damage, surgery can be done under brachial plexus block, less chances of avascular necrosis, shorter hospital stay, no hardware in situ, thus no hardware symptoms, leaves no surgical scar and lowers the rate of complications.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

Clinico-radiological and functional outcome of Neer’s 2 part, 3 part and 4 part proximal humeral fractures in elderly treated by conservative management in a tertiary care centre of North India

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Treatment of proximal humeral fractures is challenging. Despite a rising incidence in proximal humeral fractures, there is still no evidence for the best treatment option, especially for the elderly patients. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the radiological in terms of union and functional outcome in terms of pain, range of motion of conservatively managed proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This was an observational prospective study of 35 patients aged above 65 years with proximal humeral fractures including 2 part, 3 part and 4 part based on Neer’s classification, treated by conservative method. Functional outcome was assessed by using Constant score at follow up of 1 year.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;Out of 35 patients, 21(60%) were female and 14 (40%) were male with mean age of 76.8 (range 65 to 91years). On the basis of Neer’s classification, majority of patients (15, 42.8%) had 3 part fracture. Radiological union was achieved within 13 to 24 weeks, with an average of 18.4 weeks. Out of 35, 5 (14.3%) had&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;excellent outcome, 8 (22.8%) had good functional outcome, 16 (45.7%) had moderate outcome, 6 (17.14%) had poor outcome. The results were comparable with the existing literature.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;In the present study, our data shows that the proximal humeral fractures can be effectively managed conservatively in the elderly patients. Two part fractures have best functional outcome and four part fractures have highest rate of complications.&lt;/p&gt;

Displaced three and four part proximal humeral fractures: prospective controlled randomized open-label two-arm study comparing intramedullary nailing and locking plate.

The aim of this study was (1) to compare clinical and radiological outcomes of 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures using either IMN or LP (2) and to report complications related to each technique. A prospective controlled randomized open-label two-arm study was performed. Ninety-nine consecutive adult patients with a 3- and 4-part displaced acute proximal humeral fractures were randomized to be treated with IMN (n = 49) or LP (n = 50). Constant, ASES and SST scores were recorded by the surgeon. Range of motion was evaluated. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess shoulder pain. Complications and revision surgeries were reported. Eighty-five patients were analyzed, nine were lost, and five died during the follow-up period. The mean age was 73.7years (± 13.3,, and the mean follow-up was 66months (± 13.5). At last follow-up, VAS was lower in the IMN group (0.9 (± 1.1) vs. 1.9 (± 1.7), p = 0.001). The median Constant score was significantly higher in the IMN group (81.6 (± 10.9) points) vs. in the LP group (75.6 (± 19.5) points) (p = 0.043), and ASES score was also significantly higher in the IMN group (86.3 (± 9.5) vs. 75.2 (± 19.6), p = 0.001). There was no difference in the range of motion or SST scores between the two groups. Complications were seen higher in the LP group (9 (21%) vs. 22 (52%), p = 0.003). Revision surgery was higher in the LP group (37% vs. 21%). Satisfactory results were accomplished in both groups according to the reported clinical outcomes. Complication and revision rates were higher in LP group.

The forgotten fragment: additional lesser tuberosity fixation of 4-part proximal humeral fractures-a biomechanical investigation.

Fractures of the proximal humerus are common. The most frequent surgical treatment option is open reduction and locking plate fixation. Multifragmentary fractures, including 3- and 4-part fractures, are especially challenging to treat because they correlate with an increased risk of fixation failure. In the past, several mechanisms of additional fixation were investigated, but none directly addressed the lesser tuberosity (LT). The goal of this study was to investigate the biomechanical impact of additional anterior fracture fixation in lateral locked plating (LLP) of 4-part proximal humeral fractures (PHFs). Twenty-seven fresh frozen human shoulder specimens (mean age, 80 years) with intact rotator cuffs (RCs) were randomized into 4 groups: 3-part PHF with LLP and RC cerclage (n = 6); 4-part PHF with LLP and RC cerclage as standard of care (n = 7); 4-part PHF with LLP, RC cerclage, and 2 anterior 3.5-mm cortical screws (n = 7); and 4-part PHF with LLP, RC cerclage, and additional anterior one-third tubular plate (additional anterior plating [AAP], n = 7). Static load of the RC was simulated with weights. A force-controlled cyclic loading test was performed with a servo-hydraulic testing machine, followed by load-to-failure testing. An optical motion capture system recorded humeral head range of motion. LLP of a 4-part PHF showed more humeral head motion than LLP of a 3-part PHF without fracture of the LT (P < .001). Fixing the LT to the humeral head with two 3.5-mm screws significantly reduced humeral head motion compared with LLP with RC cerclage alone (P < .006). Using AAP significantly increased the construct stiffness compared with the standard of care (P = .03). LLP of a 4-part PHF is biomechanically less stable than LLP of a 3-part PHF without fracture of the LT. Additional screw fixation of the LT in 4-part PHFs improves stability compared with LLP alone. In case of metaphyseal comminution, AAP is favorable from a biomechanical perspective.

Risk factors and prognosis of humeral head inferior subluxation in proximal humeral fractures after osteosynthesis.

BackgroundHumeral head inferior subluxation often occurs immediately after osteosynthesis for proximal humeral fracture; however, the underlying cause remains largely unknown. In addition, the prognosis of postoperative inferior subluxation has not been fully investigated. This study aimed to clarify the predictive factors that affected the onset of postoperative inferior subluxation using multivariate analysis and examine the postoperative course of inferior subluxation and its influence on postoperative outcomes.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 212 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for Neer 2- or 3-part proximal humeral fractures. In the multivariate analysis, the dependent variable was set as the inferior subluxation observed 1 week after the surgery. The explanatory variables included age, sex, affected side, body mass index, smoking, local osteoporosis, preoperative axillary nerve injury, time from injury to surgery, fracture dislocation, fracture pattern, preoperative inferior subluxation, surgical procedure, surgical approaches, blood loss, operative time, and postoperative drainage. Baseline variables, which were observed to be significant in the univariate analysis, were included in multivariate models. Furthermore, based on the presence of inferior subluxation at 1 week after the surgery, we divided the patients into two groups: with inferior subluxation (+IS group) and without inferior subluxation (−IS group). We compared the postoperative outcomes (incidence of postoperative complications and range of motion) between these two groups.ResultsOf 212 patients, 64 (30.7%) experienced inferior subluxation at 1 week after the surgery. On multivariate analyses, preoperative inferior subluxation (odds ratio = 4.69; 95% confidence interval = 2.45-9.76; P < .001) and longer operative time (odds ratio = 1.01; 95% confidence interval = 1.00-1.02; P = .049) were the risk factors for postoperative inferior subluxation. In the +IS group, inferior subluxation resolved at 1 year after the surgery in 89.5% of patients. There was no significant difference in the postoperative outcome between the +IS and −IS groups. However, four of six patients with persistent inferior subluxation, more than 6 months after the surgery, experienced complications, such as varus angulation of the humeral head or screw joint perforation.ConclusionsThis study provides new information on the risk factors for and prognosis of postosteosynthesis inferior subluxation in patients with proximal humeral fracture. Longer operative time and presence of preoperative inferior subluxation was associated with an increased risk of postoperative inferior subluxation, although it was temporary in most cases, and had no significant influence on the postoperative outcomes. However, in patients with persistent inferior subluxation of more than 6 months duration, inferior subluxation may be related to postoperative complications.

Cancellous bone allograft is comparable to fibular strut allograft for augmentation in three-or four-part proximal humeral fractures.

Bone grafts have been used for augmentation and improving stability of reduced fractures in proximal humeral fractures. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical and radiological outcomes after the use of cancellous bone allografts (CAs) for augmentation in 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures, and compare with fibular strut allografts (FAs). Between November 2016 and February 2018, 55 patients, followed for at least 1 year, with 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures fixed with locking plates were included and grouped according to the type of allograft bone used for augmentation. In this retrospective analysis, we assessed and compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of the 2 groups, using the visual analog scale score, the Constant-Murley score (CMS), the disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, the range of movement, neck-shaft angle (NSA), humeral head height (HHH), and the changes of NSA and HHH, as well as recording any complications. The repeatedly measured clinical and radiological outcomes were analyzed by linear mixed models. The differences in outcomes betweengroups at the final follow-up were compared using Student's t test. There were 28 patients in the CA group and 27 patients in the FA group with an average follow-up of 14.5 months. The mean age of all patients was 64 (36-86). Nonsignificant group effects were observed on CMS (β = -8.792, P = .216), DASH (β = 1.329, P = .094), NSA (β = 1.432, P = .752), and HHH (β = 1.660, P = .628). At the final follow-up, the patients in the CA group showed no significant differences in visual analog scale (1.8 vs. 2.2, P = .276), CMS (81.5 vs. 75.4, P = .072), and DASH (11.0 vs. 13.5, P = .235) scores compared with the FA group. There were no significant differences in the change of NSA (6 vs. 4, P = .387) or HHH (1 vs. 2, P = .261). Patients with 3- or 4-part proximal humeral fractures treated with locking plates combined with CAs have good clinical and radiographic outcomes, similar to those treated with FAs.