Surgical management of displaced fractures of the proximal humerus and its functional outcome

Author(s): Dr. SY Narsimhulu and Dr. K Anjaneyulu

Abstract: Proximal humeral fractures account for 4-5% of all fractures. The optimal management of displaced fracture remains controversial. This study was designed to assess the surgical management of displaced fractures of the proximal humerus and its functional outcome. A total of 35 cases with displaced humeral fractures underwent surgical management above 18 years age were recruited. The clinical and radiological examination was conducted and post-operative assessment was done to evaluate pain, function and rotation of fractured location and radiological evaluation for fracture union. Majority cases were in between 51-60 years (34.2%) and 41-50 years (28.47%). Majority cases had fractures by road traffic accidents (62.8%) followed by falling injuries (31.4%) and by other causes (8.57%). 51.4% of cases had no pain, 28.5% cases had mild pain, 8.57% cases had pain with activity and 8.57% of cases had pain during rest. 82.85% of cases had excellent functional outcome, 14.28% of cases had moderate and 2.85% cases had a poor functional outcome. The overall outcome was excellent in 68.57% cases, good in 20% cases, moderate in 8.57% cases and poor in 2.85% cases. The Surgical approach in the management of displaced proximal humeral fractures had less pain, greater range of motion and less stiffness of fracture site. Functional outcome was better in 2 part fractures.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/ortho.2020.v6.i2a.2018