Evaluation and Management of Pediatric Proximal Humerus Greater and Lesser Tuberosity Avulsion Fractures

Abstract

Proximal humerus fractures account for 2% of fractures in skeletally immature patients. Avulsion fractures of the lesser and greater tuberosity are a rare subset of these injuries. Lack of awareness of these fracture types and subtle radiographic findings can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment. Case reports provide most of the current literature, and thus common injury mechanisms, clinical presentation, and ideal treatment time frame and modality are still undetermined. There are limited data directly comparing outcomes with nonsurgical or surgical management leading to unclear treatment guidelines. Presently, techniques for management of these injuries continue to evolve. Although these injuries represent a subset of pediatric proximal humerus injuries, they must be considered when evaluating a child with atraumatic and traumatic shoulder pain.