Treatment of proximal humeral fractures with dual-tuberosity locking plate / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of dual-tuberosity locking plate for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures.Methods:This study retrospectively analyzed data of patients with proximal humeral fractures treated with a new locking plate from July 2017 to July 2019. Finally, 19 eligible patients were included, including 12 females and 7 males, with an average age of 64.0±12.8 years (range, 32-85 years). According to the Neer classification of proximal humeral fractures, 1 case was two-part fractures, 9 cases three-part fractures and 9 cases four-part fractures. Among them, 9 cases combined with greater and lesser tuberosities fractures and 10 cases with isolated greater tuberosity fractures. Constant-Murley and disabilities of the arm shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, the change of neck-shaft angle, the change of humeral head height, tuberosity consolidation and other complications were recorded at the latest follow-up.Results:The mean follow-up time was 16.1 months (range, 12-18 months). All fractures were healed within follow-up period. Mean Constant-Murley score was 84.2±11.0 (range, 55-98), DASH score was 19.4±11.6 (range, 2.3-47.8) and VAS was 1.6±1.3 (range, 0-4) at the latest follow-up. As for the radiographic results, 19 patients had a mean neck-stem angle of 141.9°±9.8° (range, 132.17°-162.66°) on the first day after surgery, and a mean humeral head height of 18.0±5.9 mm (range, 7.45-27.12 mm). The mean neck-stem angle was 148.6°±7.5° (range, 132.70°-159.39°) and the mean humeral head height was 17.4± 5.5 mm (range, 5.02-27.31 mm) at the latest follow-up. The average change of neck-stem angle was 3.29° (range, 0.68°-33.10°), and mean change of humeral head height was 0.68 mm (range, 1.32-6.56 mm). No fractures developed greater or lesser tuberosity absorption or malunion, but 4 cases suffered loss of fixation and 1 developed primary intra-articular screw penetration as well as wound infection.Conclusion:In the open reduction and internal fixation of the proximal humeral fractures, the new locking plate can fix greater and lesser tuberosity fractures simultaneously, which helps reduce their displacement and deformity of tuberosities. By given that, satisfactory radiographic outcomes and shoulder functions can be obtained.