Shoulder hemiarthroplasty for fractures of the proximal humerus.

Proximal humeral fractures were managed with primary hemiarthroplasty in 57 patients, 53 women (93%) and 4 men (7%) aged 51-87 years (mean 72.2). The mean follow-up period was 52 months (range 12-98), and the mean Constant score was 59.2 (range 38-76). Patients were very satisfied (n = 19); satisfied (n = 32) or dissatisfied with the outcome (n = 5). One patient required early revision surgery. Surgical treatment of three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus with hemiarthroplasty is a safe and effective approach, the outcome of which appears to be related to the quality of the anatomical reconstruction of the tuberosities.