Complications of proximal humerus fractures

Abstract

Introduction. Proximal humerus fractures, resulting from direct or indirect trauma, pose a significant clinical challenge. The choice of surgical intervention is influenced by various factors including patient age, comorbidities, bone quality, activity level, fracture characteristics, and the surgeon?s expertise. This study aims to assess the frequency and nature of complications arising from the surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Material and Methods. In this retrospective analysis, 51 patients were included, with 22 males and 29 females. Two surgical techniques were employed: osteosynthesis using locking plates in 27 patients (average age 54.6 years) and intramedullary nailing in 24 patients (average age 58.4 years). The assessment of outcomes was conducted using the Constant Shoulder Score, and statistical analysis was performed using the Student?s T-test. Results. Complications were observed in 12 patients (23.5%), comprising 7 males and 5 females. In the locking plate group, where 8 complications occurred, the mean Constant score was 77.44, while the intramedullary nail group, with 4 complications noted, had a mean Constant score of 70.25. No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of complications based on gender or the type of surgical technique used. Conclusion. The study found a higher incidence of complications in male patients and those treated with locking plates, though these differences were not statistically significant. These findings emphasize the need for personalized surgical planning and highlight the complexity of managing proximal humerus fractures.