Anatomical locking plate combined with bone cement intramedullary support for proximal humeral fractures in the elderly / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To evaluate anatomical locking plate combined with bone cement intramedullary support in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in the elderly.Methods:From May 2016 to July 2018, 19 geriatric proximal humeral fractures were treated with anatomical locking plate combined with bone cement intramedullary support at Department of Orthopaedics, General Hospital of Shenyang Northern Theater. There were 8 females and 5 males, with an average age of 71 years (from 60 to 84 years). All the fractures were closed. According to the Neer classification, there were 4 two-part, 5 three-part and 4 four-part fractures. At 6, 12, 18 and 36 weeks and one year postoperatively, anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films of the scapula were taken. At the last follow-up, the Constant-Murley shoulder score and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score for the upper limb dysfunction were recorded.Results:The 13 patients were followed up for 3 to 12 months (6 months on average). Bony union was achieved in all the 13 patients. Local necrosis and deformation of the humeral head and partial screw perforation were observed one year after operation in 2 cases, but other patients reported no such complications or loosening of internal fixation. At the last follow-up, their mean Constant-Murley score was 82.6 (from 71 to 95) and their mean ADSH score 19.2 (from 9.2 to 48.1).Conclusion:Anatomical locking plate combined with bone cement intramedullary support may lead to fine early efficacy for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in the elderly, since it can facilitate fracture reduction, promote rigid fixation and prevent loss of reduction.