A new type of anatomical locking plate for split fractures of humeral greater tuberosity / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the clinical outcomes of split fractures of humeral greater tuberosity treated by our self-designed new type of anatomical locking plate.Methods From September 2012 to February 2017,23 patients were treated for acute split fracture of the humeral greater tuberosity using our self-designed new type of anatomical locking plate.They were 13 males and 10 females with a mean age of 52.8 years (range,from 25 to 81 years).Of them,6 were beyond 60 years old, 12 had comminuted fracture,10 were complicated with glenohumeral dislocation,and 12 with rotator cuff tear.The patients were evaluated clinically with Constant-Murley score,visual analog scale (VAS),range of motion and complications at the last follow-ups.Results This series were followed up for 12 to 30 months (mean,23.2 months).All the fractures healed after an average time of 10.6 weeks (range,from 8 to 12 weeks).Their mean Constant-Murley Score was 92.1 points (range,from 70 to 100 points),giving an excellent and good rate of 95.7％ (22/23);their VAS scores averaged 0.8 points (range,from 0 to 4 points).Their forward flexion averaged 160.6°,abduction 157.8°,external rotation 46.4°,and internal rotation up to the T11 level,respectively.Their complications rate was 17.4％ (4/23).One case of axillary nerve injury,one case of relapse of glenohumeral dislocation at sports,and 2 cases of stiff shoulder were observed.Conclusion Split fractures of the humeral greater tuberosity can be successfully treated with our new type of anatomical locking plate which serves as a new alternative treatment.