Functional results and unfavorable events after treatment of proximal humerus fractures using a new locking plate system.

BACKGROUND: Proximal humerus fractures are often treated with a fixed-angle titanium plate osteosynthesis. Recently, plates made of alternative materials such as carbon fibre-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) have been introduced. This study presents the postoperative results of patients treated with a CFR-PEEK plate. METHODS: Patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with a CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) were included. In follow-up examination, age and gender adjusted Constant-Murley Score (ACS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QDASH) and pain score (Visual Analog Scale (VAS)) were analyzed. General condition at follow-up was measured by European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L). Range of motion was recorded. In addition, radiographs at follow-up, unfavorable events and revision rate were analyzed. RESULTS: In total, 98 patients (66.0 ± 13.2 years, 74 females, 24 males) were reexamined. Mean follow-up was 27.6 ± 13.2 months. There were 15 2-part, 28 3-part and 55 4-part fractures. The functional scores showed good results: SSV 83.3 ± 15.6%, QDASH 13.1 ± 17.0 and ACS 80.4 ± 16.0. A 4-part-fracture, head split component, nonanatomic head shaft reposition and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis were significant negative predictors for poorer clinical scores. Unfavourable events were observed in 27 patients (27.6%). Revision surgery was performed in 8 (8.2%) patients. Risk factors for an unfavourable event were female gender, age of 50 years and older, diabetes, affected dominant hand, 4-part fracture, head split and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis. CONCLUSION: There are several advantages of the CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) such as the polyaxial screw placement and higher stability of locking screws. In summary, the CFR-PEEK plate osteosynthesis is a good alternative with comparable clinical results and some biomechanical advantages. Proximal humerus fractures show good clinical results after treatment with a CFR-PEEK plate. The revision rate and the risk of unfavorable events are not increased compared to conventional titanium plate osteosynthesis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Is the Most Cost-effective Treatment Strategy for Proximal Humerus Fractures in Older Adults: A Cost-utility Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Proximal humerus fractures are the second-most common fragility fracture in older adults. Although reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a promising treatment strategy for proximal humerus fractures with favorable clinical and quality of life outcomes, it is associated with much higher, and possibly prohibitive, upfront costs relative to nonoperative treatment and other surgical alternatives. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) What is the cost-effectiveness of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), hemiarthroplasty, and RTSA compared with the nonoperative treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures in adults older than 65 years from the perspective of a single-payer Canadian healthcare system? (2) Which factors, if any, affect the cost-effectiveness of ORIF, hemiarthroplasty, and RTSA compared with nonoperative treatment of proximal humerus fractures including quality of life outcomes, cost, and complication rates after each treatment? METHODS: This cost-utility analysis compared RTSA, hemiarthroplasty, and ORIF with the nonoperative management of complex proximal humerus fractures in adults older than 65 years over a lifetime time horizon from the perspective of a single-payer healthcare system. Short-term and intermediate-term complications in the 2-year postoperative period were modeled using a decision tree, with long-term outcomes estimated through a Markov model. The model was initiated with a cohort of 75-year-old patients who had a diagnosis of a comminuted (three- or four-part) proximal humerus fractures; 90% of the patients were women. The mean age and gender composition of the model's cohort was based on a systematic review conducted as part of this analysis. Patients were managed nonoperatively or surgically with either ORIF, hemiarthroplasty, or RTSA. The three initial surgical treatment options of ORIF, hemiarthroplasty, and RTSA resulted in uncomplicated healing or the development of a complication that would result in a subsequent surgical intervention. The model reflects the complications that result in repeat surgery and that are assumed to have the greatest impact on clinical outcomes and costs. Transition probabilities and health utilities were derived from published sources, with costs (2020 CAD) sourced from regional costing databases. The primary outcome was the incremental cost-utility ratio, which was calculated using expected quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and costs. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the impact of changing key model parameters. RESULTS: Based on both pairwise and sequential analysis, RTSA was found to be the most cost-effective strategy for managing complex proximal humerus fractures in adults older than 65 years. Compared with nonoperative management, the pairwise incremental cost-utility ratios of hemiarthroplasty and RTSA were CAD 25,759/QALY and CAD 7476/QALY, respectively. ORIF was dominated by nonoperative management, meaning that it was both more costly and less effective. Sequential analysis, wherein interventions are compared from least to most expensive in a pairwise manner, demonstrated ORIF to be dominated by hemiarthroplasty, and hemiarthroplasty to be extendedly dominated by RTSA. Further, at a willingness-to-pay threshold of CAD 50,000/QALY, RTSA had 66% probability of being the most cost-effective treatment option. The results were sensitive to changes in the parameters for the probability of revision RTSA after RTSA, the treatment cost of RTSA, and the health utilities associated with the well state for all treatment options except ORIF, although none of these changes were found to be clinically realistic based on the existing evidence. CONCLUSION: Based on this economic analysis, RTSA is the preferred treatment strategy for complex proximal humerus fractures in adults older than 65 years, despite high upfront costs. Based on the evidence to date, it is unlikely that the parameters this model was sensitive to would change to the degree necessary to alter the model's outcome. A major strength of this model is that it reflects the most recent randomized controlled trials evaluating the management of this condition. Therefore, clinicians should feel confident recommending RTSA for the management of proximal humerus fractures in adults older than 65 years, and they are encouraged to advocate for this intervention as being a cost-effective practice, especially in publicly funded healthcare systems wherein resource stewardship is a core principle. Future high-quality trials should continue to collect both clinical and quality of life outcomes using validated tools such as the EuroQOL-5D to reduce parameter uncertainty and support decision makers in understanding relevant interventions' value for money. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, economic and decision analysis.

Angular stable plate versus reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures in elderly patient.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of complex proximal humeral fractures in the elderly is a challenge and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is now an important alternative to open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with angular stable plate. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical and radiological outcomes of RTSA and ORIF in the elderly. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed patients treated for three- or four-part displaced fractures of the proximal humerus. Range of motion, disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) and Constant scores were recorded. X-ray exam in three projections completed the clinical observation at follow-up. RESULTS: Forty-eight patients were enrolled after a mean follow-up of 37 months: 22 RTSA and 26 ORIF. Mean age at trauma was 74 years. Compared with RTSA patients, ORIF patients had significantly higher mean external rotation (28° vs. 14°) and better results in modal internal rotation (hand at D7 vs. hand at L5-S1). No significant differences were seen in DASH and Constant scores. Avascular necrosis and loss of reduction with varus dislocation of the humeral head were the most frequent causes of revision surgery in ORIF (34.6%) while the revision rate of the RTSA was 9.1%. CONCLUSION: In this study, both treatments showed good clinical outcomes, but RTSA resulted in lower revision rate than ORIF. Even if external and internal rotation in RTSA patients were worse than ORIF, they did not affect the patient's quality of life. So, the reverse arthroplasty seems to be a more reliable treatment.

[Functional results after shoulder hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture: experience in our center]. / Resultados funcionales tras hemiartroplastía de hombro por fractura de húmero proximal: experiencia en nuestro centro.

INTRODUCTION: shoulder hemiarthroplasty is being relegated as a treatment for non-osteosynthetic proximal humerus fractures. Our objective is to analyze the functional results of patients treated with hemiarthroplasty for this reason in our hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: cross-sectional descriptive study that includes patients operated between February 2016 and November 2021; 24 patients, with an average follow-up of 44.6 months. Active joint balance, the Constant-Murley test, the DASH questionnaire and current pain (VAS) were collected. The radiographic parameters analyzed were the number of fracture fragments and the consolidation of the tuberosities. RESULTS: a mean of 71.65 ± 13.75 was obtained in the Constant-Murley and 18.14% ± 13.92 in the DASH. For shoulder flexion, the mean was 108.75° ± 41.26; 104.5° ± 43.68 for abduction and 33° ± 14.73 for external rotation. About internal rotation, 60% of the patients reached the scapular plane. Average VAS was 1.25 ± 1.74. Consolidated tuberosities in 90.5%. There were no significant differences comparing the Constant-Murley test, DASH or rotations between both, over and under 65 years old group of patients. Those over 65 years of age obtained a mean flexion of 125.91° ± 26.82 whereas those under 87.78° ± 26.82 (p = 0.038). The mean abduction in those over 65 was 125.45 ± 28.94 vs 78.89 ± 46.29 in the young group (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION: hemiarthroplasty provides quality of life with acceptable functionality and good pain control, therefore it should continue to be an alternative to consider in selected patients.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la hemiartroplastía de hombro está siendo relegada como tratamiento de fracturas de húmero proximal no osteosintetizables. Nuestro objetivo es analizar los resultados funcionales de los pacientes tratados con hemiartroplastía por este motivo en nuestro centro. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio descriptivo transversal que incluye a los pacientes intervenidos entre Febrero de 2016 y Noviembre de 2021; 24 pacientes, con un seguimiento medio de 44.6 meses. Fueron recogidos el balance articular activo, el test de Constant-Murley, el cuestionario DASH y el dolor actual (EVA). Como parámetros radiográficos se analizó el número de fragmentos de fractura y la consolidación de las tuberosidades. RESULTADOS: se obtuvo una media de 71.65 ± 13.75 en el Constant-Murley y de 18.14% ± 13.92 en el DASH. Para flexión de hombro la media fue de 108.75° ± 41.26; 104.5° ± 43.68 para abducción y 33° ± 14.73 para rotación externa. En rotación interna 60% llegaba hasta plano interescapular. EVA medio de 1.25 ± 1.74. Tuberosidades consolidadas en 90.5%. No hubo diferencias significativas entre el Constant-Murley, DASH ni rotaciones de pacientes mayores y menores de 65 años. Los mayores de 65 años obtuvieron flexión media de 125.91° ± 26.82 y los menores de 87.78° ± 26.82 (p = 0.038). La abducción media en mayores de 65 fue de 125.45 ± 28.94 versus 78.89 ± 46.29 en el grupo joven (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIÓN: la hemiartroplastía otorga calidad de vida con aceptable funcionalidad y buen control del dolor, por lo que debe continuar siendo una alternativa a tener en cuenta en pacientes seleccionados.

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Versus Hemiarthroplasty for the Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Model-Based Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Compared with hemiarthroplasty (HA), reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) may provide greater cost and health-related benefits for patients with complex three- and four-part proximal humeral fractures. This study set out to compare RTSA versus HA for the incremental cost per incremental improvement in quality adjusted life years (QALYs) for a hypothetical cohort of patients with proximal humerus fractures. METHODS: Parameters and characteristics for a hypothetical cohort of elderly patients with proximal humerus fractures were collected through the literature. A cohort-level Markov decision model was constructed. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios representing the difference in cost divided by the difference in QALYs were calculated, and scenario, one-way, and probabilistic analysis were conducted. RESULTS: RTSA was associated with lower cost and greater effectiveness compared with HA. The predicted cost difference corresponded to a saving of $99,626 per 100 individuals treated, and the predicted difference in QALY was 16.8 per 100 individuals treated. Results were sensitive to the discount rate, the health-related quality of life assigned to health states, and the cost of the surgical procedures. In probabilistic analysis, 77.1% of iterations were cost-effective at a threshold willingness-to-pay for a QALY of $100,000 US dollars. DISCUSSION: Findings suggest that RTSA may be a cost-effective alternative to HA for treating elderly patients requiring surgery for proximal humerus fractures. DATA AVAILABILITY: The model and corresponding code are available on request to the corresponding author. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE USING THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS GUIDANCE: Level III.

The increasing role of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder is a well established treatment for proximal humerus fractures not amenable to open reduction internal fixation. However, orthopedic surgeons have recently increased utilization of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in the treatment of these injuries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of hemiarthroplasty and RTSA between 2009 and 2016 for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures within a large United States integrated healthcare system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive study was conducted using our integrated healthcare system's Shoulder Arthroplasty Registry. Shoulder arthroplasty cases performed for an acute proximal humerus fracture between the years of 2009 and 2016 were identified. Revision rates were determined, as well as changes in age and gender distribution of the cohort during the study period. RESULTS: In 2015, RTSA utilization surpassed that of hemiarthroplasty for the first time in the healthcare system. The utilization of RTSA in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures increased from 4.5% of all arthroplasties in 2009 to 67.4% of arthroplasties in 2016. During the study period, patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty were younger and less likely to be female. Crude revision rate was 4.0% for hemiarthroplasty and 3.2% for RTSA. CONCLUSIONS: RTSA is increasingly being utilized for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures and now appears to be the treatment of choice. While hemiarthroplasty appears to be falling out of favor in the treatment of fractures of the shoulder, surgeons may still be preferentially using the procedure in younger patients.

Simultaneous bilateral shoulder and bilateral central acetabular fracture dislocation: What to do?

Musculoskeletal injuries following seizures have a high morbidity and mortality. These injuries are often missed and the diagnosis is delayed due to a lack of clinical suspicion and appropriate investigations.We report a case of 72 years old male with simultaneous bilateral central acetabular fracture dislocation and bilateral posterior shoulder fracture dislocation secondary to an epileptic seizure. Present study high- lights the significance of clinical suspicion and clinico-radiological evaluation for diagnosis of a rare injury following episode of seizures. Simultaneous fracture dislocation of all four limbs treated with a holistic approach can lead to a good functional recovery. Surgical management with open reduction and internal fixation is preferred and replacement arthroplasty should be reserved for cases with implant failure and elderly patients.

An alternative treatment method for defective pseudoarthrosis; evaluation of eight patients treated with Artelon+Kryptonite.

Pseudoarthrosis with bone loss is one of the most challenging orthopaedic problems for surgeons. Bone loss usually leads to technical difficulties during surgery due to instability in the fracture area. Eight patients with pseudoarthrosis of different long bones were operated on by the same surgeon. The median age was 53 years (25-61), and the median time period after the index operation was 21 months (12-72 months). Radiographic union was achieved in all patients in 3.62 months (2-5 months). Efficient healing with new bone formation was observed in all of the patients. The result of the current case series is promising. This treatment method can be used for the treatment of pseudoarthrosis without increasing morbidity. Long-term follow-up and larger case series are needed for evidence of the adequacy and reliability of this method of treatment.

The Kaiser Permanente shoulder arthroplasty registry: results from 6,336 primary shoulder arthroplasties.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Shoulder arthroplasty is being performed in the United States with increasing frequency. We describe the medium-term findings from a large integrated healthcare system shoulder arthroplasty registry. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Shoulder arthroplasty cases registered between January 2005 and June 2013 were included for analysis. The registry included patient characteristics, surgical information, implant data, attrition, and patient outcomes such as surgical site infections, venous thromboembolism, and revision procedures. RESULTS: During the study period, 6,336 primary cases were registered. Median follow-up time for all primaries was 3.3 years; 461 cases were lost to follow-up by ending of health plan membership. Primary cases were predominantly female (56%) and white (81%), with an average age of 70 years. The most common reason for surgery was osteoarthritis in 60% of cases, followed by acute fracture (17%) and rotator cuff tear arthropathy (15%). In elective shoulder arthroplasty procedures, 200 all-cause revisions (4%) were reported, with glenoid wear being the most common reason. INTERPRETATION: Most arthroplasties were elective procedures: over half performed for osteoarthritis. Glenoid wear was the most common reason for revision of primary shoulder arthroplasty in elective cases.

Biomechanical effects of calcar screws and bone block augmentation on medial support in locked plating of proximal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to investigate the biomechanical effects of medial fracture gap augmentation in locked plating of an unstable 2-part proximal humeral fracture with calcar screws and insertion of a corticocancellous bone block. Furthermore the mechanical behavior of dynamic locking screws in the non-parallel arrangement of a proximal humeral plate was of interest. METHODS: Thirty-two fresh frozen humeri were randomized in four equal groups. An unstable 2-part fracture was fixed by locked plating in all specimens. The basic screw setup was supplemented by additional calcar screws in one group. Humeral head screws were replaced by dynamic locking screws in a second group. The third group featured an additional corticocancellous femoral head allograft. Assessment of stiffness was followed by cyclic loading and load to failure tests. Resulting stiffness, fracture gap deflection and ultimate load were compared utilizing Bonferroni corrected t-test for independent samples. FINDINGS: The mechanical effect of additional calcar screws was non-significant as compared to the basic screw configuration whereas bone block insertion significantly increased construct stiffness and failure load. The use of dynamic locking screws did not significantly reduce construct stiffness when compared to conventional locking screws. INTERPRETATION: Additional calcar screws alone did not improve the initial biomechanical properties of an unstable 2-part proximal humeral fracture model. However bone block augmentation appeared to be a reliable alternative of additional bony support by raising stiffness and failure load. Dynamic locking screws did not show their expected dynamic component when used in a non-parallel arrangement.

Proximal humeral fractures: the role of calcium sulphate augmentation and extended deltoid splitting approach in internal fixation using locking plates.

UNLABELLED: The aim of our study is to analyse the results of our surgical technique for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures and fracture dislocations using locking plates in conjunction with calcium sulphate bone-substitute augmentation and tuberosity repair using high-strength sutures. We used the extended deltoid-splitting approach for fracture patterns involving displacement of both lesser and greater tuberosities and for fracture-dislocations. Optimal surgical management of proximal humeral fractures remains controversial. Locking plates have become a popular method of fixation. However, failure of fixation may occur if they are used as the sole method of fixation in comminuted fractures, especially in osteopenic bone. METHODS: We retrospectively analysed 22 proximal humeral fractures in 21 patients; 10 were male and 11 female with an average age of 64.6 years (range 37-77). Average follow-up was 24 months. Eleven of these fractures were exposed by the extended deltoid-splitting approach. Fractures were classified according to Neer and Hertel systems. Preoperative radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans in three- and four-part fractures were done to assess the displacement and medial calcar length for predicting the humeral head vascularity. According to the Neer classification, there were five two-part, six three-part, five four-part fractures and six fracture-dislocations (two anterior and four posterior). Results were assessed clinically with disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, modified Constant and Murley scores and serial postoperative radiographs. RESULTS: The mean DASH score was 16.18 and the modified Constant and Murley score was 64.04 at the last follow-up. Eighteen out of twenty-two cases achieved good clinical outcome. All the fractures united with no evidence of infection, failure of fixation, malunion, tuberosity failure, avascular necrosis or adverse reaction to calcium sulphate bone substitute. There was no evidence of axillary nerve injury. Four patients had a longer recovery period due to stiffness, associated wrist fracture and elbow dislocation. The CaSO4 bone substitute was replaced by normal appearing trabecular bone texture at an average of 6 months in all patients. CONCLUSION: In our experience, we have found the use of locking plates, calcium sulphate bone substitute and tuberosity repair with high-strength sutures to be a safe and reliable method of internal fixation for complex proximal humeral fractures and fracture-dislocations. Furthermore, we have also found the use of the extended deltoid-splitting approach to be safe and to provide excellent exposure facilitating accurate reduction for fixation of the fracture patterns involving displacement of both lesser and greater tuberosities and for fracture-dislocations.

Biomechanical evaluation of a new fixation technique for internal fixation of three-part proximal humerus fractures in a novel cadaveric model.

BACKGROUND: The optimal surgical treatment for displaced proximal humeral fractures is still controversial. A new implant for the treatment of three-part fractures has been recently designed. It supplements the existing Expert Humeral Nail with a locking plate. We developed a novel humeral cadaveric model and the existing implant and the prototype were biomechanically compared to determine their ability in maintaining interfragmentary stability. METHODS: The bone mineral density of eight pairs of cadaveric humeri was assessed and a three-part proximal humeral fracture was simulated with a Greater Tuberosity osteotomy and a surgical neck wedge ostectomy. The specimens were randomly assigned to either treatment. A bone anchor simulated part of a rotator cuff tendon pulling on the Greater Tuberosity. Specimens were initially tested in axial compression and afterward with a compound cyclic load to failure. An optical 3D motion tracking system continuously monitored the relative interfragmentary movements. FINDINGS: The specimen stabilized with the prototype demonstrated higher stiffness (P=0.036) and better interfragmentary stability (P values<0.028) than the contralateral treated with the existing implant. There was no correlation between the bone mineral density and any of the investigated variables. INTERPRETATION: The convenience of this new IM-nail and locking plate assembly must be confirmed in vivo but the current study provides a biomechanical rationale for its use in the treatment of three-part proximal humeral fractures. The improved stability could be advantageous in particular when medial buttress is missing, even in osteoporotic bone.

Quality of life and functional outcome after a 2-part proximal humeral fracture: a prospective cohort study on 50 patients treated with a locking plate.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to report the 2-year outcome after a displaced 2-part fracture of the proximal humerus in elderly patients treated with a locking plate, including an assessment of the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We included 50 patients, mean age 75 (range, 55-93) years with 80% women. The fracture inclusion criteria were a displacement of the shaft of >50% of its width and/or >45 degrees of angulation. Follow-up examinations were performed at 4, 12, and 24 months. The main outcome measures were the Constant and DASH scores and HRQoL according to the EQ-5D. RESULTS: Eight patients (16%) were re-operated upon during the study period. At the final follow-up the mean Constant score was 61 and the mean DASH score 32. The EQ-5D (index) score decreased from 0.86 before the fracture to 0.62 at 4 months. At 12 months the EQ-5D (index) score was 0.65 and at 24 months 0.68. The values at all follow-ups were significantly lower than before the fracture (P < .001 in all 3 comparisons). CONCLUSION: Locking plates appear to be a good treatment alternative in elderly patients with a displaced 2-part fracture of the surgical neck of the proximal humerus with an acceptable complication rate and an acceptable functional outcome; however, rigorous attention has to be paid to avoid screw penetration. Despite the overall acceptable functional outcome, the patients reported a substantial negative effect upon their HRQoL.

[Central-medullary nailing of proximal humerus fractures using T2 nails. A retrospective study of 38 cases]. / Enclouage centromédullaire des fractures de l'extrémité proximale de l'humérus par clou T2. Etude rétrospective de 38 cas.

The intramedullary nailing of humerus has emerged as one of the treatments of reference for proximal fractures. We have reviewed 38 patients aged 64.2 on average with a mean follow of 18 months. The functional scores used were the Constant and Murley's score as well as the DASH self-administered quality of life questionnaire. Radiological criteria have been analyzed, namely the cephalic angle noted alphaF and the presence of any osteolysis of the major tuberosity. Patients were grouped by type of fracture, according to Neer's classification, with nine cases in Neer 2 group, 19 in Neer 3 group, and ten in Neer 4 group. The unrefined Constant score was 53.4 points on average, balanced to 71.6%. The joint mobilities were an average forward elevation of 108 degrees, an average abduction of 100 degrees and an external rotation of 27 degrees. These scores were even worse than the fracture was comminuted. It was not found a radioclinical correlation between value of the angle alphaF and clinical outcome, but the presence of osteolysis of the major tuberosity was significantly associated with poor late functional results. Five cases of osteonecrosis have been counted, divided with 10.5% in the Neer stage 3, and 30% in the Neer stage 4. The average unrefined Constant score from these patients was 38.5 points on average, balanced to 57.7%. Intramedullary nailing allows fixation of comminuted fractures with three or four fragments, but control of fixing and strength of assembly were not always practiced. In young patients, where tuberosities consolidation is essential, screwed plates seem to be a favorable alternative. Moreover, total reverse prosthesis seems to have more and more arguments to impose itself like the preferred treatment towards fractures in four fragments in people aged over 75 years.

[Observation on therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture on activity disturbance of the shoulder joint after operation of fracture].

OBJECTIVE: To observe clinical therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture, radiation of infrared rays plus passive exercise on movement disorders of shoulder joint after operation of fracture of surgical neck of humerous. METHODS: Sixty cases were randomly divided into an acupuncture plus exercise group (n = 32) and an exercise therapy group (n = 28). The acupuncture plus exercise group were treated with electroacupuncture and infrared ray radiation at rigid soft tissue on the affected side, with adjuvant points, Xuehai (SP 10), Sanyinjiao (SP 6) and Yang-lingquan (GB 34) selected for acupuncture treatment and after the needles were withdrawn passive exercise of the shoulder joints were made. The exercise therapy group were treated by active exercise after passive exercise of shoulder joint. Therapeutic effects were observed after treatment for one month, and shoulder pain scores VAS and scores of activity of shoulder joint before and after treatment were observed. RESULTS: The total effective rate of 84.4% in the acupuncture plus exercise group was better than 64.3% in the exercise group. Before and after treatment, the VAS scores were 5.8 +/- 0.5 and 3.1 +/- 0.3 in the acupuncture plus exercise group, and 5.7 +/- 0.5, 4.3 +/- 0.4 in the exercise therapy group, respectively, with significant decreases after treatment in the two groups (both P < 0.001), the acupuncture plus exercise group being more significantly decreased than the exercise therapy group (P < 0.001). Before and after treatment, the total scores of activity of shoulder joint were 103.38 +/- 11.10 and 193.61 +/- 10.21 in the acupuncture plus exercise group, and 103.01 +/- 10.01 and 133.45 +/- 9.81 in the exercise therapy group, respectively, with significant increases after treatment in the two groups (both P < 0. 01), the acupuncture plus exercise group being better than the exercise therapy group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture, radiation of infrared rays plus passive exercise has obvious therapeutic effect on movement disorders of shoulder joint after operation of fracture of surgical neck of humerous.

[Epidemiology and perspectives in traumatology of the elderly]. / Epidemiologie und Perspektiven der Alterstraumatologie.

Corresponding to the demographic development, fractures of the humerus, wrist, or hip will occur noticeably more often during the next four decades. The number of patients with hip fractures will increase to 170% of present-day numbers, and in the age group >80 years to 250%. Trauma surgical departments should train their staff as well as adapt their workflows and ambient conditions to this demanding clientele to be prepared for these changes. For the elderly, a fracture may lead to need for permanent home care, which is why postoperative transfer to ambulatory care is especially important. The expected cost progression in traumatology of the elderly may be moderated by the conjunction of inpatient and ambulatory care, the utilization of synergies among the different service types, and by implementation of prophylaxis for osteoporosis and falls.

Bilateral shoulder fracture dislocations and radiculopathies secondary to electrical injury (a case report).

INTRODUCTION: In this report a case of bilateral shoulder fracture dislocations and C5 radiculopathy developed after an electrical injury is presented. CASE: A 29 year-old male patient referred to our hospital with complaints of inability to raise his hands overhead starting 3 months ago after an electrical injury. The first physical examination revealed loss of strength (3/5) in deltoid muscles bilaterally, bilateral shoulder fracture dislocations and C5 radiculopathies. An open reduction and internal fixation (using K wire, cortical screw) procedure was applied for the right side in the Department of Orthopedics. Postoperatively active (A) and passive (P) ranges of motion (ROMs) were restricted extremely in the right and left shoulder respectively. Since applications of 15 sessions of electrical stimulation for deltoid muscle and physical treatment for both shoulders failed to achieve satisfactory ROMs, K wire extraction was instituted with resultant increase in the right shoulder A/P ROMs after 10 sessions of physical therapy postoperatively. At the last examination which was 18 months after the injury, ROMs of the right shoulder were increased, but not normal. CONCLUSION: It must be remembered that in electrical injury, fractures and dislocations might occur in affected sites without any evidence of trauma with associated neurologic complications, and that these cases must be promptly detected and managed without any delay.