ABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo identify the curative effect of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) and humeral head replacement in treatment of elderly patients with Neer four-part fractures.MethodsUsing the deltoid pectoral approach,28 patients with fresh Neer four-part fractures were treated by the locking plate combined with MIPO (Group A) and 27 by the humeral head replacement (Group B).Neer score,Constant-Murley score and simple shoulder test (SST) questionnaire were adopted for assessing the treatment outcome.ResultsGroup A was followed up for mean 32.1 months,which showed screws protruding into the joint space in two patients,tuberosity upward and backward displacement in one and femoral head ischemic necrosis in one.The mean visual analog scale (VAS) score,the mean Neer score and the mean Constant-Murley score were 2.2 points,88.6 points and 86.5 points respectively.There were average 9.0 answers for “yes” in the SST questionnaire.Group B were followed up for mean 34.6 months,which showed shoulder dislocation or subluxation in four patients,tuberosity displacement or excessive reduction in eight.The mean VAS score,the mean Neer score and the mean Constant-Murley score were 2.4 points,78.9 points and 77.3 points respectively.The mean number of answer for “yes” in SST questionnaire was 8.0 questions.There showed no statistical difference in VAS score between the two groups.While statistical difference was found in complications,Neer score,Constant-Murley score and SST score between two groups,with Group A superior to Group B.Conclusions For most elderly patients with Neer four-part fractures,MIPO has satisfactory results under strict control of surgical indications and technical tips.The humeral head replacement surgery still has many unresolved problems and needs careful consideration.