Functional outcome of proximal humerus locking plate in displaced proximal humerus fractures- A prospective study

Abstract

To analyze the functional outcomes of patients with proximal humerus fracture with philos plate fixation.: This prospective study encompasses a cohort of 20 patients diagnosed with displaced fractures of the proximal humerus, categorized according to Neer's classification. Aged between 22 - 66 years who all sustained trauma to limb. Pathological and undisplaced patterned proximal humerus fractures were excluded from this study. All the patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with philos plate in Department of Orthopaedics at MM Institute of Medical Sciences and Research during the study period. Average age of patients included into this study was 46.95 years. Average time taken from injury to surgery was 7.85 days. Delto-pectoral and deltoid splitting approach was used in the cases included in this study, to gain access to proximal humerus. In this study we have used Constant score along with Neer’s classification for proximal humerus fracture to assess the functional outcome of all the cases. We have obtained 25% excellent, 30% good, 30% moderate and 15% poor functional outcome measured by Constant score.: In our study 20 patients having displaced proximal humerus fracture of Neer’s classification included, 17 patients (85%) had excellent to moderate outcomes with proximal humerus internal locking system. The utilization of stable and rigid fixation provided by Philos plate fixation offers several advantages. Early mobilization facilitated by this technique enables patients to swiftly return to their pre-fracture functional status, consequently reducing the risk of shoulder stiffness, restricted range of motion, head collapse, and ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life. Proximal humerus. The choice of surgical approach and type of implant employed is contingent upon several factors, including the fracture pattern, bone quality, patient's objectives, and the surgeon's proficiency with various techniques. Additionally, the learning curve associated with selected implants significantly influences decision-making. Employing an appropriate surgical technique can mitigate complications, while a rigorous rehabilitation regimen contributes to achieving optimal outcomes. Despite the limitations of our study, namely its relatively short duration and lack of randomization, our findings align with those reported in other scholarly publications.