Minimal Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) Technique Using Anterolateral Approach for Treating Closed Proximal Humerus Fracture

ABSTRACT

Proximal humerus fracture is the second most common fracture of the upper extremity and presents several unique problems such as anatomical complexity, high risk of avascular necrosis, minimal bone stock for purchase, significant morbidity, and lack of a universally accepted treatment. Recent treatments for proximal humerus fractures include use of minimally invasive plate osteosynthysis (MIPO). The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the outcomes of our less invasive technique using a modified anterolateral approach for treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Ten such operative procedures were performed in patients of varying age and with varied mechanism of injury from 2002-2011. All cases were conducted in an acute setting. There were no cases of infection and the functional outcome scores were good. This approach represents an alternative treatment for closed proximal humerus fracture but more extensive studies are needed.