Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures

Complications after reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus nonunion

BACKGROUND

Proximal humerus nonunion is a challenging complication of fractures that can be treated surgically with either open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). The few studies published on this subject have shown high rates of complications and revision surgery when RTSA has been performed for proximal humerus nonunion. The purpose of this study was to determine the rates of complications and revision of this procedure at our institution, as well as to identify any variables that may impact risks of complications and reoperations.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective review of all patients who underwent RTSA for proximal humerus nonunion between 2005 and 2021 was performed. Nonunion was defined as imaging evidence of lack of union, at least 90 days after the index fracture. Patients with less than 1 year of clinical follow-up were excluded. Fifty patients were included, with the majority being female (78%). The mean age at time of RTSA was 71 (range: 54-86) years and most patients were initially treated nonoperatively (74%). Mean total follow-up was 49 (range: 11-130) months. Demographic and surgical variables were recorded. Primary outcomes were complications and reoperations. Complications were divided into surgical (those directly related to RTSA), or other (those unrelated to RTSA). Secondary outcomes included visual analog scale pain scores and range of motion.

RESULTS

A total of 17 shoulders (34%) sustained complications after revision shoulder arthroplasty, with 10 (20%) requiring reoperation. Six patients (12%) sustained dislocations and 5 (10%) had radiographic evidence of humeral loosening. No variables examined, including nonoperative vs. surgical management of the index fracture, prosthesis type, or management of tuberosities, influenced the risk of dislocation. Survivorship free from reoperation at 2 years was 73%. Younger age at time of RTSA and the presence of diabetes mellitus both increased the risk of reoperation significantly (P = .013 and P = .037, respectively). There was a trend towards increased risk of reoperation in patients who were treated with initial ORIF (hazard ratio = 2.95); however, this did not reach statistical significance (P = .088). Three patients (6%) sustained a periprosthetic fracture after a fall.

CONCLUSION

RTSA provides improved pain and function for properly selected patients with proximal humerus nonunion. Dislocation, humeral loosening, and reoperation rates remain high when RTSA is performed for nonunion compared to other diagnoses. In this study, younger age and diabetes mellitus increased the odds of reoperation. Every effort must be made to optimize implant stability and humeral component fixation when RTSA is performed for proximal humerus nonunion.

The acromion plate angle: a simple measurement to predict clinical outcomes after plate removal in proximal humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

One-third of patients who undergo open reduction and internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures require subsequent plate removal (PR). It is currently unclear which patients will benefit most from this procedure. Therefore, to support preoperative decision-making we sought to identify predictive factors of the clinical benefits of PR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients with open reduction and internal fixation for proximal humerus fractures from 2014 to 2020 were recorded prospectively in an institutional register. All those with a 1-year follow-up were included in the study. The clinical and radiographic follow-ups after 12 months, and before and after PR were evaluated. The radiographic analysis included measuring known parameters (acromion tuberosity index, lateral acromion angle, critical shoulder angle) and a new measurement: the acromion plate angle (APA).

RESULTS

We included 91 patients of whom 31 had undergone later PR. A significant difference between the group without and with PR was only seen in the age (P ≤ .001). Significant improvement in the absolute Constant score (CS) (+12.6), relative CS (+16.6), elevation (+29.5°), abduction (+32.6°), and external rotation (+18.1°) (P values <.001) was observed following PR. The regression analysis revealed that older age and low APA were significant predictors of clinically relevant improvement of the absolute CS. Optimal cut-off values for age (>55 years) and APA (<36°), corresponding to a minimal increase of 10 points in the absolute CS, were also identified.

CONCLUSION

Significant improvements in absolute CS and range of motion were achieved in all patients after PR. Even though it was performed more frequently in younger patients, patients >55 years profited the most. An APA of <36° was found to be a positive predictor for significant and relevant functional improvement after PR. Its easy use on ap radiographs allows uncomplicated integration into the clinical decision-making process and helps inform the patients in terms of what to expect after the intervention.

Trends in the surgical management of proximal humerus fractures over the last 20 years from Australian registry databases

BACKGROUND

Proximal humerus fractures (PHF) are common with approximately 30% requiring surgical intervention. This ranges from open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) to shoulder arthroplasty (including hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA)). The aim of this study was to assess trends in operative interventions for PHF in an Australian population.

METHODS

Data was retrospectively collected for private patients with a PHF and requiring surgical intervention (2001-2020). Data for patients undergoing ORIF were extracted from the Medicare database, while those receiving arthroplasty for PHF were obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR).

RESULTS

Across the study period, ORIF was the most common surgical procedure for management of PHFs. While the number of RTSA procedures for PHF has increased, shoulder hemiarthroplasty has significantly reduced since 2008 (p < 0.001). Patients aged < 65 years were more likely to receive ORIF. Patients aged ≥ 65 years were more likely to receive RTSA or hemiarthroplasty compared to patients aged < 65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

While the number of ORIF procedures has increased during the period of interest, it has diminished slightly as a proportion of overall procedure volume. RTSA is becoming increasingly popular, with decreasing utilization of hemiarthroplasty, and TSA for fracture remaining uncommon.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Low-value surgical innovation under peer-review: A sham study of abstracts on proximal humerus fractures submitted to scientific meetings

BACKGROUND

Innovation has in common the promise of benefit for patients; however, past experience has shown that this promise is not always delivered. Instead, low-value innovation might encourage treatment variation and dilute the available body of evidence. This study aims to investigate (1) whether the peer-review process is capable of filtering out low-value innovation appropriately, and (2) whether low-value surgical innovation would be preferred more often than nonoperative innovation by peer-reviewers in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in the elderly.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two duplicated sham scientific abstracts, respectively introducing a low-value surgical innovation and a valuable nonsurgical innovation, were submitted to nineteen peer-reviewed scientific meetings worldwide for orthopedic trauma surgery with submission deadlines between 01/01/2022 and 31/12/2022. Decision regarding abstract acceptance was compared.

RESULTS

There was a high acceptance rate for the abstract introducing low-value surgical innovation (12 out of 19 (63.2 %)), which was higher than that of a nonoperative duplicate (10 out of 19 (52.6 %)), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.5). The majority of the ten meetings that accepted both abstracts placed both in equivalent programmatic tiers (oral presentation (4) and poster presentation (2)). In three meetings, the surgical abstract received superior program placement (oral presentation). In one case, it was the opposite.

CONCLUSION

There is a high acceptance rate for low-value surgical innovation among peer-reviewed scientific meetings. However, we can not conclude that low-value surgical innovation is preferred more often than nonoperative innovation by peer-reviewers as the differences in acceptance rate were small and not statistically significant. The peer-review process may be suitable as value-based medicine emerges. Scientists should be encouraged to pursue value-based innovation.

Risk factors and complications in surgical management of proximal humeral fractures: a retrospective analysis of 132 cases

Proximal humeral fractures (PHF), ranking as the third most common osteoporotic fractures, pose a significant challenge in management. With a rising incidence in an aging population, controversy surrounds surgical versus nonoperative treatments, particularly for displaced 3- and 4-part fractures in older patients. Locking plates (LP) and proximal intramedullary nails (PHN) are primary choices for surgical intervention, but both methods entail complications. This retrospective study of 132 patients undergoing surgery for PHF (LP or PHN) aims to identify risk factors for postoperative complications. Results reveal a 31% complication rate, including secondary loss of reduction (17%) and intra-articular screw penetration (13%). Alcohol abuse emerges as the sole patient characteristic linked to complications. Non-anatomical surgical reduction, calcar comminution, and humeral shaft displacement over 10 mm also contribute to increased risks. LP and PHN show comparable complication rates, aligning with existing literature. The study underscores the pivotal role of achieving anatomical surgical reduction in minimizing complications. Surgical technique, fracture pattern, and patient characteristics significantly influence outcomes. Notably, alcohol abuse surfaces as a critical risk factor. The findings emphasize the importance of a nuanced approach to PHF management, tailoring interventions based on fracture characteristics and patient factors. Future research should explore these aspects, particularly in younger patient populations, to enrich our understanding of surgical outcomes in diverse age groups.

Open reduction and internal fixation of the proximal humerus with femoral head allograft augmentation "the French fry technique"

Fractures of the proximal humerus account for 4%-8% of injuries to the appendicular skeleton. Most are stable, minimally displaced osteoporotic fractures in the elderly, and are the result of low-energy falls. A large majority of these patients regain adequate shoulder function without operative intervention. Surgery is considered in approximately 20% of patients because they require improved shoulder function for their activities of daily living or because of the significant deformity of their fracture and the need to restore functional alignment, length, and rotation in active, higher demand individuals. However, fixation of these fractures can pose a challenge due to poor bone quality and displacing forces of the rotator cuff. This is especially true in 3-part and 4-part fractures. These factors lead to the high failure rates seen with early attempts at osteosynthesis. In the last 2 decades, locking plate technology has been an innovation in treating these complex fractures. Despite the improvements in torsional strength and rigidity, outcome studies on locking plate technology demonstrate equivocal results with complication rates as high as 20%-30% and a revision rate of 10%. Specifically, these complications include avascular necrosis, varus collapse, intra-articular screw penetration, and postoperative stiffness. Varus collapse occurs when the weak osteoporotic bone fails around the implant. In turn, fibular strut endosteal augmentation was introduced to provide additional support and decrease implant failure rates in displaced fractures with varus coronal malalignment and significant metaphyseal bone loss. Although clinically successful and biomechanically superior to plate-only constructs, a few concerns remain. In turn, we introduce a novel technique of creating individual cancellous femoral head allograft struts or "French fries" that provides structural support for the humeral head but does not have the potential problems of a cortical fibular strut.

Application of Artificial Intelligence in Shoulder Pathology

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the science and engineering of creating intelligent machines for imitating and expanding human intelligence. Given the ongoing evolution of the multidisciplinary integration trend in modern medicine, numerous studies have investigated the power of AI to address orthopedic-specific problems. One particular area of investigation focuses on shoulder pathology, which is a range of disorders or abnormalities of the shoulder joint, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, weakness, and reduced range of motion. There has not yet been a comprehensive review of the recent advancements in this field. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to evaluate current AI applications in shoulder pathology. This review mainly summarizes several crucial stages of the clinical practice, including predictive models and prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and physical therapy. In addition, the challenges and future development of AI technology are also discussed.

Permissive Weight Bearing in Proximal Humeral Fracture Management: A Survey-Based Inquiry in the Netherlands

Purpose Proximal humeral fractures (PHF) are common, particularly among the elderly due to low-energy trauma. Adequate rehabilitation is essential for functional recovery, whether through conservative or surgical treatment. Permissive weight bearing (PWB) is a relatively new rehabilitation concept, characterized by earlier mobilization of the affected limb/joint after trauma. Multiple studies demonstrated the value of PWB for the lower extremities, but this has not been translated to the upper extremity (i.e. PHF). Therefore, our aim was to investigate the current state and variability of rehabilitation of PHF and the role of implementing PWB principles in aftercare. Materials and methods An online survey, comprising 23 questions about the treatment of PHF, was distributed amongst an estimated 800 Dutch orthopaedic and trauma surgeons via the Dutch Orthopaedic and Dutch Trauma Society newsletter from May 2021 until July 2021. Results Among 88 respondents (n=69 orthopaedic, n=17 trauma surgeons, and n=2 other), most recommended early post-trauma mobilization (<6 weeks). Additionally, 53.4% (n=49) advised starting load bearing after six weeks for conservatively treated patients and 59.8% (n=52) for operative treatment. A wide variation of exercises used after immobilization was found in both groups. The usage of a sling after operative treatment was advised by 86% (n=74) of all 86 respondents. Conclusions The present study found limited consensus about PHF aftercare and the implementation of weight-bearing principles. The majority recommended early mobilization and advised the usage of a sling. A protocol capable of accommodating the diversity in aftercare (e.g. fracture type) is essential for maintaining structured rehabilitation, with PWB emerging as a promising example. More prospective studies are needed to form an evidence-based protocol focusing on the aftercare of PHF.

Weight-bearing Guidelines for Common Geriatric Upper and Lower Extremity Fractures

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review paper is to summarize current weight-bearing guidelines for common geriatric fractures, around weight-bearing joints, of the upper and lower extremities.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increasing amount of literature investigating the safety and efficacy of early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, particularly of the lower extremity. Many recent studies, although limited, suggest that early weight-bearing may be safe for geriatric distal femur and ankle fractures. Given the limited data pertaining to early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, it is difficult to establish concrete weight-bearing guidelines in this population. However, in the literature available, early weight-bearing appears to be safe and effective across most injuries. The degree and time to weight-bearing vary significantly based on fracture type and treatment method. Future studies investigating postoperative weight-bearing protocols should focus on the growing geriatric population and identify methods to address specific barriers to early weight-bearing in these patients such as cognitive impairment, dependence on caregivers, and variations in post-acute disposition.

Why treatment of proximal humeral fractures remains unresolved despite randomized trials

Most proximal humeral fractures can be treated nonoperatively, but there are specific indications to perform surgery for some of these fractures. Optimal treatment remains subject to debate, since no consensus has been reached for the best therapy for these fractures. This review provides an overview of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing treatment for proximal humeral fractures. Fourteen RCTs comparing different operative and nonoperative types of treatment for PHF are included. Different RCTs comparing the same interventions for PHF have drawn different conclusions. It also highlights reasons why consensus has not been reached based on these data, and how this could be addressed in future research. Previous RCTs have included different patient groups and fracture patterns, may have been prone to selection bias, often were underpowered for subgroup analysis, and showed inconsistency in the outcome measures used. Based on this, and appreciating that treatment may be tailored to specific fracture types and patient characteristic like age, a better way to move forward could be to use a (international) multicenter prospective cohort study. Such a registry-type study should use accurate patient selection and enrollment, well-defined fracture patterns, standardized surgical techniques performed according to the preferences of the surgeon, and with a standardized follow-up.

Optimal Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures in the Elderly: Risks and Management Challenges

Proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) are a common type of fracture, particularly in older adults, accounting for approximately 5-6% of all fractures. This article provides a comprehensive review of PHFs, focusing on epidemiology, injury mechanism, clinical and radiographic assessment, classification systems, and treatment options. The incidence of PHFs varies across regions, with rates ranging from 45.7 to 60.1 per 100,000 person-years. Females are more susceptible to PHFs than males, and the incidence is highest in women over the age of 85. The injury mechanism of PHFs is typically bimodal, with high-energy injuries predominant in younger individuals and low-energy injuries in the elderly. Clinical assessment of PHFs involves obtaining a thorough history, physical examination, and evaluation of associated injuries, particularly neurovascular injuries. Radiographic imaging helps assess fracture displacement and plan for treatment. The Neer classification system is the most commonly used classification for PHFs, although other systems, such as AO/OTA, Codman-Hertel, and Resch classifications, also exist. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as patient age, activity level, fracture pattern, and surgeon expertise. Nonoperative management is typically preferred for elderly patients with minimal displacement, while operative fixation is considered for more complex fractures. Nonoperative treatment involves sling immobilization followed by physiotherapy, with good outcomes reported for certain fracture patterns. Operative management options include closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP), open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), or arthroplasty. CRPP is suitable for specific fracture patterns, but the quality of reduction is crucial for favorable outcomes. ORIF is used when CRPP is not feasible, and various surgical approaches are available, each with its advantages and potential complications. PHFs are a significant clinical challenge due to their prevalence and complexity. Treatment decisions should be patient centered based on patient factors and fracture severity.

Locking plate fixation versus intramedullary nail fixation for the treatment of multifragmentary proximal humerus fractures (OTA/AO type 11C): a preliminary comparison of clinical efficacy

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of locking plate and intramedullary nail fixations in the treatment of patients with OTA/AO type 11C proximal humerus fractures.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with OTA/AO type 11C1.1 and 11C3.1 proximal humerus fractures who underwent surgery at our institution from June 2012 to June 2017. Perioperative indicators, postoperative morphological parameters of the proximal humerus, and Constant-Murley scores were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients with OTA/AO type 11C1.1 and 11C3.1 proximal humerus fractures were enrolled in this study. Overall, 35 patients underwent open reduction and plate screw internal fixation, and 33 patients underwent limited open reduction and locking of the proximal humerus with intramedullary nail internal fixation. The total cohort had a mean follow-up duration of 17.8 months. The mean operation time of the locking plate group was significantly longer than that of the intramedullary nail group (P < 0.05), while the mean bleeding volume was significantly higher in the locking plate group than that in the intramedullary nail group (P < 0.05). The initial neck-shaft angles, final neck-shaft angles, forward flexion ranges, or Constant-Murley scores did not show significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). Complications, including screw penetrations, acromion impingement syndrome, infection, and aseptic necrosis of the humeral head, occurred in 8 patients (8/35, 22.8%) in the locking plate group and 5 patients in the intramedullary nail group (5/33, 15.1%; including malunion and acromion impingement syndrome), with no significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Similar satisfactory functional results can be achieved with locking plates and intramedullary nailing for OTA/AO type 11C1.1 and 11C3.1 proximal humerus fractures, with no significant difference in the number of complications between these two techniques. However, intramedullary nailing has advantages over locking plates for OTA/AO type 11C1.1 and 11C3.1 proximal humerus fractures in terms of operation time and bleeding volume.

Surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of both randomized controlled and observational studies comparing surgical interventions for proximal humerus fractures.

METHODS

Systematic review of Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar, including all level 1-3 studies from 2000 to 2022 comparing surgical treatment with ORIF, IM nailing, hemiarthroplasty, total and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RTS) was conducted. Clinical outcome scores, range of motion (ROM), and complications were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's ROB2 tool and ROBINs-I tool. The GRADE system was used to assess the overall quality of the body of evidence. Heterogeneity was assessed using χ² and I² statistics.

RESULTS

Thirty-five studies were included in the analysis. Twenty-five studies had a high risk of bias and were of low and very low quality. Comparisons between ORIF and hemiarthroplasty favored ORIF for clinical outcomes (p = 0.0001), abduction (p = 0.002), flexion (p = 0.001), and external rotation (p = 0.007). Comparisons between ORIF and IM nailing were not significant for clinical outcomes (p = 0.0001) or ROM. Comparisons between ORIF and RTS were not significant for clinical outcomes (p = 0.0001) but favored RTS for flexion (p = 0.02) and external rotation (p = 0.02). Comparisons between hemiarthroplasty and RTS favored RTS for clinical outcomes (p = 0.0001), abduction (p = 0.0001), and flexion (p = 0.0001). Complication rates between groups were not significant for all comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis for surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures demonstrated that ORIF is superior to hemiarthroplasty, ORIF is comparable to IM nailing, reverse shoulder arthroplasty is superior to hemiarthroplasty but comparable to ORIF with similar clinical outcomes, ROM, and complication rates. However, the study validity is compromised by high risk of bias and low level of certainty. The results should therefore be interpreted with caution. Ultimately, shared decision making should reflect the fracture characteristics, bone quality, individual surgeon's experience, the patient's functional demands, and patient expectations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; systematic review and meta-analysis.

Influence of Fracture Reduction on the Functional Outcome after Intramedullary Nail Osteosynthesis in Proximal Humerus Fractures

Background: Optimal treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHF) is still controversial. Therefore, we aim to investigate the influence of fracture reduction after intramedullary nailing of a PHF on the clinical outcome. Methods: Patients treated with intramedullary nail for PHF from 2013−2018, (minimum follow-up 12 months) were retrospectively included. Constant Score (CS), DASH and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) were collected. Postoperative radiographs were used to determine head-shaft-alignment (HSA), head-shaft-displacement (HSD), integrity of the medial hinge and the cranialization of the greater tuberosity (CGT). The results of fracture reduction were categorized as either “anatomical”, “acceptable” or as “malreduction”. Malreduction exists when at least one of the following parameters are present: HSA > 150/< 110°, HSD >5 mm, CTM > 5 mm or lack of integrity of the medial hinge. Results: 42 patients (mean age 65.5 ± 14.1 years, 15 male, 27 female) with a mean follow-up time of 43 months were included. The average CS was 60 ± 30, DASH 49.8 ± 24.3 and SST 62.9 ± 26.9. There was an “anatomic” reduction in 9 (21.4%), “acceptable” in 7 (16.6%) and a “malreduction” in 26 (62%) patients. Comparing the combined “anatomical” and “acceptable” reduction group with the “malreduction” group, worse scores were observed in the “malreduction” group (CS 67.2 vs. 55.2, DASH 45.2 vs. 51.9, SST: 69.3 vs. 58.6) without statistical significance (CS: p = 0.095, DASH: p = 0.307, SST: p = 0.400). By means of multiple logistic regression analyses no statistically significant risk factors were identified for lower DASH, CS and SST scores. Conclusions: Anatomical fracture reduction using intramedullary nails has a positive effect on postoperative outcome for the 3 scores recorded, without reaching statistical significance.

Plate osteosynthesis for proximal humerus fractures through a deltoid-split approach under traction in lateral decubitus position: preliminary results

Aim: We aimed to present deltoid split approach under traction in lateral decubitus position that we perform for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) and to present the preliminary surgical and clinical outcomes of our patients. Material and Method: Twelve patients who underwent plate osteosynthesis through a deltoid split approach under traction in lateral decubitus position between May 2019 and January 2021 were evaluated. Patient demographics, Neer classification, and time from injury to surgery were collected in all patients preoperatively. Radiation exposure time and operating time was recorded intraoperatively. Radiological outcomes were assessed, including time to union, and neck-shaft angle. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Constant score at the minimum 12-month follow-up. Results: Twelve patients (5 male, 7 female) were evaluated with a mean age 58.6±10.7 years (range, 32 to 72 years) at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up period was 117.4±3.8 months). The mean operation time was 60.7±15.2 min (range, 44 to 92 min). The mean radiation exposure time was 6.1±3.0 s (range, 3.3 to 14.2 s). Fracture union was observed in all patients at mean 14.6±2.5 weeks (range, 8 to 20 weeks). The mean neck-shaft angle after the union was 134.5±3.4 degrees (range, 124 to 143 degrees). The mean Constant score was at the final follow-up was 76.4±8.7 (range, 63 to 90). Conclusion: Patient positioning in the lateral decubitus position under traction can be considered as a safe, reliable, and reproducible method in selected patients with PHFs.

Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures in Adults-A Scoping Review

Proximal humerus fractures are the third most common fracture type in adults, with their incidence increasing over time. There are varied approaches to both the classification and treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Optimal treatments for this fracture type are still widely open to debate. This review summarizes the current and historical treatment modalities for proximal humerus fractures. In this paper, we provide updates on the advances and trends in the epidemiology, classification, and operative and nonoperative treatments of proximal humerus fractures.

Self-Reduction in Proximal Humerus Fractures through Upright Patient Positioning: Is It up to Gravity?

Background: The self-reduction in proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) remains a poorly explored myth, and it was rarely investigated in the past. One of the oldest hypotheses suggests that gravity and the weight of the affected arm alone are driving forces, which facilitate a self-reducing potential in PHFs. However, thus far, clear radiographic evidence for this theory is missing in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the immediate effect of upright patient positioning on self-reducing of PHFs. Methods: Between November 2019 and November 2020, seven consecutively bedridden but mentally competent patients were admitted to our emergency department with an acute proximal humerus fracture. Within routinely attempts of closed reductions under the control of an image converter (C-arm), immobile patients were mobilized into an upright sitting position on a stretcher while the affected arm was immobilized in a sling. Fluoroscopic controls were performed before and after upright positioning. Changes in the head-shaft angle (HSA), as well as the medial hinge index (MHI), were determined on plain true anteroposterior (AP) fluoroscopic images. Results: In all cases, upright patient positioning had an immediate self-reducing effect. This effect could be seen in five out of seven cases for both HSA and MHI. Changes in HSA and MHI averaged 21.2° and 0.25, respectively. Mean deviation from an ideal, anatomic HSA of 135° decreased through upright positioning from 25.5° to 13.8°. Mean deviation from an ideal, anatomic MHI of 1 decreased through upright positioning from 0.28 to 0.19. Conclusions: Upright patient positioning might contribute immediately to the self-reduction in PHF through the force of gravity. This underlines the importance of being aware of patients’ position when interpreting X-ray images within treatment decision-making processes.

Operative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures with Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty in Patients ≥65 Years Old: A Critical Analysis Review

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The majority of proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) in patients who are ≥65 years of age are treated nonoperatively, but certain complex fracture patterns benefit from surgical intervention. However, there continues to be debate regarding the indications for surgery and the optimal surgical treatment (repair versus replacement) in this population.

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Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has grown in popularity for surgical treatment of fracture-dislocations and displaced complex PHFs in patients who are ≥65 years of age; it has definite advantages over surgical repair and hemiarthroplasty, but this finding requires additional higher-quality evidence.

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RTSA provides early pain relief and return of shoulder function as well as predictable elevation above shoulder level in the forward plane, but the indications for and understanding of the effect of timing on RTSA after a PHF continue to evolve.

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RTSA for an acute PHF is indicated in patients who are ≥65 years of age with 3- and 4-part fracture-dislocations, head-split fractures, and severely displaced fractures, and is an option in patients who are not able to tolerate nonoperative treatment of severely displaced 3- and 4-part fractures.

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RTSA is also indicated as a salvage operation for PHFs that have failed initial surgical repair (i.e., fixation failure, implant failure, rotator cuff failure, or osteonecrosis) and is an option for symptomatic nonunion or malunion after nonoperative treatment.

Surgeons Consider Initial Nonoperative Treatment With Potential for Future Conversion to Reverse Arthroplasty a Reasonable Option for Older, Relatively Infirm, and Less-Active Patients

OBJECTIVES

Two recent developments favor initial nonoperative treatment of proximal humerus fractures among the older, relatively infirm, less-active patients that represent most patients with such fractures: (1) evidence of minimal benefit of open reduction, internal fixation over nonoperative treatment, and (2) evidence of the effectiveness of the reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. As one step in determining the feasibility of a strategy of initial nonoperative treatment of proximal humerus fracture among older, relatively infirm, less-active people, we performed a survey-based experiment to measure factors associated with surgeon recommendation for initial nonoperative treatment.

METHODS

Members of the Science of Variation Group viewed 8 hypothetical patients with radiographs of complex proximal humeral fractures and 7 randomized patient variables. For each scenario, surgeons were asked whether they would recommend (1) initial nonoperative treatment with bailout reverse arthroplasty or (2) immediate reverse arthroplasty.

RESULTS

The mean percentage of recommendations for initial nonoperative treatment was 63%, with wide variation by surgeon (range 0%-100%). In multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression, recommendation for initial nonoperative treatment was associated with specific radiographs, older age, having a comorbidity, being homebound, surgical subspecialists, and more than 20 years in practice.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that surgeons may consider initial nonoperative treatment with potential for future conversion to reverse arthroplasty an acceptable treatment option, particularly for older, less-active, more infirm individuals, and relatively less displaced fractures with little comminution.

Simultaneous Bilateral Proximal Humerus Fractures Treated with Single-Stage Bilateral Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

Introduction

Simultaneous bilateral fractures of the proximal humerus are infrequent, and simultaneous bilateral three- or four-part fractures are even rarer. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is being used increasingly for the treatment of three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. However, treatment of simultaneous bilateral fractures of the proximal humerus is difficult because of concern about postoperative immobilization and rehabilitation. Case Presentation. A 75-year-old woman presented with bilateral shoulder pain subsequent to a fall on the street. Physical examination and radiographs showed simultaneous bilateral fractures of the proximal humerus. The right side fracture was classified as a four-part fracture and the left side fracture as a three-part fracture, according to Neer's classification. The right shoulder had a risk of avascular necrosis of the humeral head. For the left shoulder, the fracture type had caused ischemia of the humeral head. Single-stage bilateral RSA was performed 9 days after the injury. An abduction pillow was applied for 5 weeks postoperatively. Passive motion exercises were permitted starting at 4 weeks postoperatively, and active range of motion exercises were permitted at 6 weeks postoperatively. At the patient's most recent follow-up 30 months after surgery, the patient reported no restriction of the activities of daily living. Radiographs revealed no lucent line on the humerus and glenoid components, although bone resorption and superior retraction of the tuberosities on both sides were observed.

Conclusions

Single-stage bilateral RSA improved shoulder function, but healing of the greater tuberosity can affect the improvement in external rotation after the operation. Although a long-term follow-up is needed, single-stage bilateral RSA appears to be a viable treatment option.

Comparison of 30-day complications between reverse shoulder arthroplasty and open reduction internal fixation for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures

PURPOSE

While the use of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) has remained stable over the last decade, there has been a significant increase in the use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for proximal humerus fractures (PHFs). This study sought to compare the complication profiles of RTSA to ORIF in a large, validated, retrospective cohort.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical treatment for PHFs with RTSA or ORIF were identified in a national database (NSQIP) using CPT and ICD codes. Demographics and comorbidities were identified for each cohort of patients. Thirty-day complications were analyzed with univariate and multivariate analyses using Chi-square, Fischer's exact and analysis of variance testing.

RESULTS

The total number of patients included in this study was 2157.522 (24.2%) underwent RTSA and 1635 (75.8%) underwent ORIF. Patients undergoing RTSA were older with an average age of 73.52 years compared with 63.84 years in those undergoing ORIF (p < 0.001). Patients with RTSA were more likely to experience any complications (p < 0.001), pulmonary complications (p = 0.029), extended length of stay > 3 days (p < 0.001), and perioperative transfusion requirement (p < 0.001) after univariate analysis. After controlling for demographic differences, the only statistically significant complication was perioperative transfusion requirement (OR 1.383).

CONCLUSION

After controlling for demographic variables and comorbidities, RTSA placed patients at increased risk for perioperative blood transfusion. Patients undergoing RTSA should be counseled prior to surgery regarding the risk for transfusion and potentially optimized medically through multidisciplinary care if the surgeon elects to proceed with RTSA versus ORIF for the treatment of PHFs.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability of morphological Mutch classification for greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus: A comparison of x-ray, two-, and three-dimensional CT imaging

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate inter- and intraobserver reliability of the morphological Mutch classification for greater tuberosity (GT) fragments in consecutive proximal humerus fractures (PHF) regardless of the number of parts according to the Codman classification system for three different imaging modalities (plain radiographs, two-dimensional [2-D] computed tomography [CT], and reformatted, three-dimensional [3-D] CT reconstruction).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred thirty-eight consecutive PHF with GT involvement were identified between January 2018 and December 2018 in a supraregional Level 1 trauma center. GT morphology was classified by three blinded observers according to the morphological Mutch classification using the picture archiving and communication software Visage 7.1 (Visage Imaging Inc., San Diego, CA, USA). Fleiss' and Cohens' kappa were assessed for inter- and intraobserver reliability. Strength of agreement for kappa (k) values was interpreted according to the Landis and Koch benchmark scale.

RESULTS

In cases of isolated GT fractures (n = 24), the morphological Mutch classification achieved consistently substantial values for interobserver reliability (radiograph: k = 0.63; 2-D CT: k = 0.75; 3-D CT: k = 0.77). Moreover, use of advanced imaging (2-D and 3-D CT) tends to increase reliability. Consistently substantial mean values were found for intraobserver agreement (radiograph: Ø k = 0.72; 2-D CT: Ø k = 0.8; 3-D CT: Ø k = 0.76). In cases of multi-part PHF with GT involvement (n = 114), interobserver agreement was only slight to fair regardless of imaging modality (radiograph: k = 0.3; 2-D CT: k = 0.17; 3-D CT: k = 0.05). Intraobserver agreement achieved fair to moderate mean values (radiograph: Ø k = 0.56; 2-D CT: Ø k = 0.61; 3-D CT: Ø k = 0.33).

CONCLUSION

The morphological Mutch classification remains a reliable classification for isolated GT fractures, even with 2-D or 3-D CT imaging. Usage of these advanced imaging modalities tends to increase interobserver reliability. However, its reliability for multi-part fractures with GT involvement is limited. A simple and reliable classification is missing for this fracture entity.

MutiLoc Nail Versus Philos Plate in Treating Proximal Humeral Fractures: A Retrospective Study Among the Alderly

Background

Proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) account for 4–5% of all fractures in the elderly. There is still a controversy among the treatments in the displaced PHFs. Our aim was to explore the clinical outcome of PHFs with the treatment of MultiLoc nail or Philos plate in the elderly patients.

Methods

A total of 82 sustained elderly patients with PHFs were finally recruited between Dec 2016 and Dec 2017. 34 patients were treated with MultiLoc nail and 48 patients were treated with Philos plate. The demographics, fracture types, blood loss, operation time, union time, postoperative complications, visual analog scores (VASs), Constant scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Scores (ASESs), and neck-shaft-angle (NSA) between the two groups were compared.

Results

No differences were observed in the demographics, fracture types, VAS, Constant scores, and ASES scores between the two groups at final follow-up. Compared with the plate group, the blood loss, operation time, and union time were significantly lower in the nail group (all P < .05). The rate of general complications was 54.17% in the plate group, which was higher than that in the nail group (26.47%, P = .01). Three patients experienced reoperation in the plate group (3/48; 6.25%), but none in the nail group. Although there were no significant differences in intraoperative NSA between the two groups, the NSA at final follow-up in the nail group was much higher than the plate group (137.55 ± 5.53°vs 134.47 ± 5.92°, P = .02).

Conclusions

Multiloc intramedullary nail showed the similar effectiveness of final VAS, final Constant scores, and ASES scores in PHFs treatment with Philos plate. However, MultiLoc nail is superior to Philos plate in blood loss, operation time, complications, reoperation rate, and the change of NSA.

No change in outcome ten years following locking plate repair of displaced proximal humerus fractures

PURPOSE

To assess longer-term (> 5 years) function and outcome in patients treated with anatomic locking plates for proximal humerus fractures.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at an urban, academic level 1 trauma center and an orthopedic specialty hospital. Patients treated operatively for proximal humerus fractures with an anatomic locking plate by three orthopedic trauma surgeons and two shoulder surgeons from 2003 to 2015 were reviewed. Patient demographics and injury characteristics, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores, complications, secondary surgeries, and shoulder range of motion were compared at 1 year and at latest follow-up.

RESULTS

Seventy-five of 173 fractures were eligible for analysis. At a minimum 5 years and a mean of 10.0 ± 3.2 years following surgery, DASH scores did not differ from one-year compared to long-term follow-up (16.3 ± 17.4 vs. 15.1 ± 18.2, p = 0.555). Shoulder motion including: active forward flexion (145.5 vs. 151.5 degrees, p = 0.186), internal rotation (T10 vs. T9, p = 0.204), and external rotation measurements (48.4 vs. 57.9, p = 0.074) also did not differ from one year compared to long-term follow-up. By one year, all fractures had healed. After 1-year post-operatively, four patients underwent reoperation, but none for AVN or screw penetration.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-reported functional outcome scores and shoulder range of motion are stable after one year following proximal humerus fracture fixation, and outcomes do not deteriorate thereafter. After one-year, long-term follow-up of fixed proximal humerus fractures may be unnecessary for those without symptoms.

Task-oriented exercises improve disability of working patients with surgically-treated proximal humeral fractures. A randomized controlled trial with one-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

General physiotherapy is a common means of rehabilitation after surgery for proximal humeral fracture (PHF). Better-targeted exercises seem worthy of investigation and the aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a rehabilitation program including task-oriented exercises in improving disability, pain, and quality of life in patients after a PHF.

METHODS

By means of a randomized controlled trial with one-year follow-up, 70 working patients (mean age of 49 ± 11 years; 41 females), who were selected for open reduction and internal fixation with plates caused by PHF, were randomized to be included in an experimental (n = 35) or control group (n = 35). There was a permuted-block randomization plan, and a list of program codes was previously created; subsequently, an automatic assignment system was used to conceal the allocation. The first group underwent a supervised rehabilitation program of task-oriented exercises based on patients' specific job activities, and occupational therapy. The second group underwent general physiotherapy, including supervised mobility, strengthening and stretching exercises. Both groups individually followed programs of 60-min session three times per week for 12 weeks in the outpatient setting. The Disability Arm Shoulder Hand questionnaire (DASH; scores range from 0 to 100; primary outcome), a Pain intensity Numerical Rating Scale (scores range 0 to 10; secondary outcomes), and the Short-Form Health Survey (scores range from 0 to 100; secondary outcomes) assessed the interventions. Participants were evaluated before surgery, before and after rehabilitation (primary endpoint), and at the one-year follow-up (secondary endpoint). A linear mixed model analysis for repeated measures was carried out for each outcome measure (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Time, group and time by group showed significant effects for all outcome measures in favour of the experimental group. The DASH and the DASH work achieved clinically important between-group differences of 16.0 points (95% confidence interval [C.I.] 7.3 to 24.7) and 19.7 (95% C.I. 9.0 to 30.5) at follow-up, respectively. The NRS achieved a between-group difference of 2.9 (95% C.I. 1.0 to 3.9) at follow-up. As for SF-36, there were between-group differences ranging from 17.9 to 37.0 at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

A rehabilitation program based on task-oriented exercises was useful in improving disability, pain, and quality of life in working patients after PHFs. Improvements lasted for at least 12 months.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

On 16/12/2019, the trial was retrospectively registered in the ISRCTN registry with the ID number 17996552 .

Nonsensus in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures: uncontrolled, blinded, comparative behavioural analysis between Homo chirurgicus accidentus and Macaca sylvanus

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the inter-rater reliability of Barbary macaques compared with an expert group of surgeons for the choice of treatment and predicted outcome of proximal humerus fractures.

DESIGN

Uncontrolled, blinded, comparative behavioural analysis.

SETTING

Germany and United States.

PARTICIPANTS

10 blinded experts in the field of orthopaedic trauma surgery (Homo chirurgicus accidentus), with special focus on upper extremity surgery from Germany and the US, and five Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus) from a semi-free range enclosure.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The reliability of agreement between raters assessed with Fleiss' ĸ.

RESULTS

Barbary macaques seem to have inferior inter-rater reliability in comparison with experts for choice of treatment (non-surgical v surgical), but for the geriatric age group most frequently affected by proximal humeral fractures, they performed similarly to the experts in their choices of treatment and choice of surgical procedure. Agreement about predicted outcome was poor among the macaques and slight among the experts. All experts almost always predicted the outcome incorrectly and tended to underestimate it. While only 4 (4.4%) of 90 experts' predictions were correct, 13 (28.9%) of 45 macaques' predictions were correct.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus on treatment and expected outcomes of proximal humeral fractures is lacking even beyond the human species. Although Barbary macaques tend to predict the clinical outcome more accurately, their reliability to assist surgeons in making a consistent decision is limited. Future high quality research is needed to guide surgeons' decision making on the optimal treatment of this common injury.

Treatment options for proximal humeral fractures in the older adults and their implication on personal independence

BACKGROUND

No consensus exists on the optimal treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHFx). Uncertainty about surgical treatment in the older adults using locking plates (e.g., PHILOS) has emerged, due to a high number of complications. This study aimed to assess the impact of non-operative versus operative treatment of a PHFx on the level of self-dependence in our older population.

METHODS

We included patients aged over 65 years with some level of self-dependence, treated at our hospital between 5/2011 and 4/2013 for isolated PHFx of AO subtypes A2, A3, and B1 for which either non-operative or surgical treatment using a PHILOS plate had been applied. The patients were questioned, examined, or interviewed via phone; AO fracture patterns and treatment were documented as well as level of self-dependence, complications, constant score (CSM), subjective shoulder value (SSV), quality of life (EQ-5D), and shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI).

RESULTS

Patients with PHFx of AO subtypes A2, A3, or B1 that were either treated non-operative (n = 50) or operative by insertion of the PHILOS plate (n = 63) were included. Operative-treated patients were 3.3 times as likely to lose some level of independence (95% CI 0.39-28, p = 0.271). Shoulder motion, strength, and functional outcomes tended to be lower in operative-treated patients, with adjusted differences of, - 11 CMS points (95% CI - 23 to 2), - 9 SPADI points (95% CI - 18 to 0), and - 6% in SSV (95% CI - 17 to 5). Quality-of-life EQ-5D utility index was similar in both groups (mean - 0.04; 95% CI - 0.18 to 0.10).

CONCLUSION

In our study population, non-operatively treated older adults with an AO type A2, A3, B1 fracture of the proximal humerus tended to have a high chance to return to their premorbid level of independence, compared to patients treated with a locking plate. A change in the treatment algorithm for these PHFx may be carefully considered and further investigated in clinical practice.

Cross-elements to enhance fixation in osteoporotic bone with application to proximal humeral locking plates: a biomechanical study

BACKGROUND

Proximal humeral fractures occur predominantly in elderly, osteoporotic individuals, especially women, with surgery performed in one-fifth. Proximal humeral locking plates are the gold standard operative treatment; however, complications are frequent, partially because of poor screw purchase in osteoporotic bone. A new method uses threaded posts through which threaded cross-elements orthogonally pass to create a 3-dimensional scaffold for bone engagement. We examined the pullout characteristics of the posts with (1 or 2) or without the cross-elements and tested 2 types of 3.5-mm cortical locking screws for comparison.

METHODS

Low-density closed-cell polyurethane foam served as a model osteoporotic bone substrate. Following implantation in the substrate, the devices were axially loaded by a mechanical test system. Quantities of interest included failure mode, peak load, displacement to peak load, initial stiffness, and work expended.

RESULTS

The post groups outperformed the 3.5-mm screw groups, as expected. Relative to posts with no cross-elements, 1 and 2 cross-elements increased the peak load by 29% and 87% and increased the work to peak load by 126% and 343%, respectively. After reaching peak load, 1 and 2 cross-elements increased the work-resistance to further displacement by 158% and 330%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Cross-elements significantly increased the ability of the threaded posts to resist axial displacement from a model osteoporotic bone substrate. This suggests that posts, used in conjunction with cross-elements, have the potential to enhance the stability of proximal humeral locking plates in osteoporotic bone.

High rate of maintaining self-dependence and low complication rate with a new treatment algorithm for proximal humeral fractures in the elderly population

BACKGROUND

We modified our treatment algorithm for proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients in 2013 to a more conservative approach avoiding locking plates. This study assesses the impact of this change on patient self-dependence.

METHODS

We carried out an observational comparative study including both retrospectively and prospectively collected data. For the former, 147 isolated proximal humeral fracture patients older than 65 years were treated between 2011 and 2013 at our hospital and included in a historical group. The revised treatment algorithm was applied in a similar non-concurrent, comparative patient group (n = 160) prospectively enrolled between 2015 and 2017. The primary outcome was any loss of self-dependence, with secondary outcomes including documentation of shoulder functional scores, quality of life, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Historical and prospective patients had similar baseline characteristics. Nonoperative treatment was performed in 53 historical patients (36%) and 83 prospective patients (78%). Prospective patients were 1.6 times less likely to lose some level of self-dependence (risk ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-1.5; P = .292), and the local adverse event risk dropped from 12.2% to 5.7% (P = .078). Mean shoulder function and quality of life were similar between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

By applying our revised algorithm, a higher proportion of elderly patients maintained their premorbid level of self-dependence and returned to their previous social environment.

Nationwide trends in management of proximal humeral fractures: an analysis of 77,966 cases from 2008 to 2017

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus as to the treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHFs), particularly in elderly patients. There is increasing evidence that nonoperative management may have similar functional outcomes to operative management, which is potentially conflicting with increasingly improved surgical techniques and implants. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the incidence and management of PHFs across Australia over a 10-year period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all hospitalizations of patients with PHFs from 2 Australian national health care databases from 2008 to 2017. We recorded the incidence of PHFs and annual utilization rates of commonly used treatment options including nonoperative management, hemiarthroplasty (HA), reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), and open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF).

RESULTS

The incidence of PHFs increased from 26.8 per 100,000 person-years in 2008 to 45.7 per 100,000 person-years in 2017. There was a decrease in operative management from 2008 to 2017, with 32.5% and 22.8% of all PHFs treated operatively in 2008 and 2017, respectively (P = .001). ORIF use decreased significantly from 76.6% to 72.6% (P = .004). RTSA use increased significantly from 4.1% to 24.5% (P < .001). HA use decreased significantly from 19.3% to 3% (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas the incidence of PHFs increased, the operative management of PHFs decreased significantly from 2008 to 2017, particularly in patients aged 65 years or older. This decrease in operative management was in part due to a significant decrease in ORIF and HA use in patients aged 65 years or older. There was a significant increase in RTSA use.

Simultaneous bilateral reverse shoulder arthroplasty for bilateral four-part fracture of the proximal humerus in an elderly patient: A case report

BACKGROUND

Proximal humeral fracture is the third most common fracture in elderly people after fractures of proximal femur and distal radius. They typically occur after low-energy trauma in women affected by osteoporosis, bilateral involvement is rare and usually with a simple pattern of fracture. Bilateral four-part proximal humerus fractures are even less frequent, with only a few reports published previously, with all of them caused by a seizure or electrocution in patients < 65 years old.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a 77-year-old right-handed female that sustained a bilateral simultaneous four-part humeral fracture secondary to accidental slip-and-fall occurred at home. Patient was treated with simultaneous bilateral Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA) in our structure. Functional assessment was undertaken at 6- and 12-months follow-up (FU) after surgery, using the Constant-Murley score (CMS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score.

OUTCOME

The simultaneous RSA procedure was well tolerated by the patient. Post-operative course was optimal with relatively low blood loss, rapid functional recovery, and fast pain relief. The CMS and DASH score were reasonably good at 6-months FU (right-left: 39-57 and 50.8-30.5, respectively) and they further improved at 1-year FU (right-left: 66-82 and 35.8-19.2, respectively). X-rays showed good position of the implants with no evidence of scapular notching at 1 year. Patient rated the overall satisfaction as good.

DISCUSSION

Bilateral four-part proximal humeral fractures are complex injuries difficult to manage. Optimal treatment is controversial, and it can be conservative or surgical, varying from open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to arthroplasty. However, this last option is still directed to only one side, preferring ORIF or conservative treatment for the contralateral. In case of comminute and displaced fractures, low bone quality, rotator cuff deficiencies and eccentric osteoarthritis, RSA is to prefer as a surgical option. For these reason, in selected cases of bilateral four parts proximal humerus fracture, especially when occurs in elderly patients, the simultaneous RSA implantation can represent a valid option to achieve an adequate functional result and a fast recovery. This is the first description, to our knowledge, in English literature of a simultaneous bilateral RSA.

Long-term follow-up after MIPO Philos plating for proximal humerus fractures

INTRODUCTION

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) has been described as a suitable technique for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures, but long-term functional results have never been reported. The aim of this study was to describe the long-term functional outcome and implant-related irritation after MIPO for proximal humerus fractures.

METHODS

A long-term prospective cohort analysis was performed on all patients treated for a proximal humerus fracture using MIPO with a Philos plate (Synthes, Switzerland) between December 2007 and October 2010. The primary outcome was the QuickDASH score. Secondary outcome measures were the subjective shoulder value (SSV), implant related irritation and implant removal.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine out of 97 patients (81%) with a mean age of 59 years were available for follow-up. The mean follow-up was 8.3 years (SD 0.8). The mean QuickDASH score was 5.6 (SD 14). The mean SSV was 92 (SD 11). Forty out of 79 patients (50.6%) had implant removal, and of those, 27/40 (67.5%) were due to implant-related irritation. On average, the implant was removed after 1.2 years (SD 0.5). In bivariate analysis, there was an association between the AO classification and the QuickDASH (p = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of proximal humerus fractures using MIPO with Philos through a deltoid split approach showed promising results. A good function can be assumed due to the excellent scores of patient oriented questionnaires. However, about one-third of the patients will have a second operation for implant removal due to implant-related irritation.

Operative versus nonoperative treatment of proximal humeral fractures: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and comparison of observational studies and randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus on the choice of treatment for displaced proximal humeral fractures in older patients (aged > 65 years). The aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis were (1) to compare operative with nonoperative management of displaced proximal humeral fractures and (2) to compare effect estimates obtained from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies.

METHODS

The databases of MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) were searched on September 5, 2017, for studies comparing operative versus nonoperative treatment of proximal humeral fractures; both RCTs and observational studies were included. The criteria of the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies, a validated instrument for methodologic quality assessment, were used to assess study quality. The primary outcome measure was physical function as measured by the absolute Constant-Murley score after operative or nonoperative treatment. Secondary outcome measures were major reinterventions, nonunion, and avascular necrosis.

RESULTS

We included 22 studies, comprising 7 RCTs and 15 observational studies, resulting in 1743 patients in total: 910 treated operatively and 833 nonoperatively. The average age was 68.3 years, and 75% of patients were women. There was no difference in functional outcome between operative and nonoperative treatment, with a mean difference of -0.87 (95% confidence interval, -5.13 to 3.38; P = .69; I² = 69%). Major reinterventions occurred more often in the operative group. Pooled effects of RCTs were similar to pooled effects of observational studies for all outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend nonoperative treatment for the average elderly patient (aged > 65 years) with a displaced proximal humeral fracture. Pooled effects of observational studies were similar to those of RCTs, and including observational studies led to more generalizable conclusions.

National trends in proximal humerus fracture treatment patterns

BACKGROUND

The treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) is largely surgeon dependent with no clear guidelines for selecting the optimal method of treatment.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate trends and variations in treatment methods of PHF in the United States from 2004 to 2012 and to determine the regional differences in treatment.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify all patient discharges with diagnosis codes for PHF and the data were classified based on ICD-9 procedure codes. Patient and hospital demographics were also analyzed. Simple linear regression analyses were performed for each treatment modality to evaluate current treatment trends and to extrapolate the future trends of PHF treatment over the next 20 years.

RESULTS

A national estimate of 550,116 PHF discharges was identified over the time period. Significant correlations between change over time and treatment modality were found for reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) (r = 0.903, p < 0.001), open reduction internal fixation (r = 0.876, p = 0.002), and closed reduction internal fixation (r = -0.922, p < 0.001). The RSA regression model showed that by the year 2032, PHF treated with RSA will increase 100% from 2012.

DISCUSSION

There were significant changes in treatment modalities for PHF from 2004 to 2012; The projected number of RSA used to treat PHF will be about 9115 in 2032, compared to 340 in 2004.

CONCLUSION

Overall, there was a growth in proximal humerus fractures treated in an inpatient setting in the United States. RSA had the greatest proportional increase over time, but only accounted for less than 2% of total interventions.

Fluoroscopic Technique for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Proximal Humeral Fracture Using the Proximal Humeral Locking Plate: Proposal of "Plate" and "Screw" Views

Proximal humeral fractures are common injuries with increasing incidence, particularly in the aging population. Nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures can be treated conservatively whereas surgical fixation is usually indicated in the cases of displaced fractures. Various surgical options have been used for treatment of these fractures. Good outcomes have been reported with use of the Proximal Humeral Internal Locking System (PHILOS plate; Synthes, Zuchwil, Switzerland) as the implant of choice. However many complications have been reported, including varus malalignment, excessive retroversion of the articular part of the humerus, penetration of screws, and avascular necrosis of the humeral head. Therefore, we have hypothesized that an inadequate intraoperative fluoroscopic assessment may be an important factor contributing to these complications. We have described a step-by-step intraoperative fluoroscopic setup, including the proposal of a plate and screw view, focusing on the accuracy of reduction and proper placement of the PHILOS plate to prevent the complications previously described.