Hemiprosthetic replacement in four-part fractures of the proximal humerus

ABSTRACT

Fifteen patients with four-part fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder. They were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. The shoulder was protected for four weeks before the initiation of physiotherapy. The results were evaluated clinically for pain and range of motion and radiographically for the union of the greater tuberosity. The average constant score was 60 points at 12 months postoperatively and the complications were acceptable. The study demonstrated that this procedure results in a satisfactory clinical success