Treatment of proximal humeral fractures with Polarus nail fixation

A chart review of 20 patients who sustained acute proximal humeral fractures and who were treated by surgical stabilization with locked antegrade humeral intramedullary nails (Polarus nails) was undertaken. The clinical outcome measurements were fracture healing, infection, and neurologic injury. Radiologic outcome measurements included fracture alignment, loosening, fixation and hardware failure, and malunion and nonunion. Of 20 fractures, 11 healed without complications. The mean immediate postoperative and final radiographic valgus neck/shaft angulation measured 131 degrees. Of the 20 implants, 3 had proximal fixation screw loosening. Of the 20 implants, 2 underwent revision surgery for proximal fixation failure. With certain fracture types, the Polarus intramedullary humeral nail can be an effective implant. In fracture cases involving an unstable or comminuted lateral metaphyseal fracture, if the starting point extends into the greater tuberosity, fixation failure or fracture displacement may result.     

Internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures with a Polarus humeral nail

Background  Proximal humeral fractures occur frequently. Displaced or unstable fractures require open reduction and internal fixation. Our objective was to investigate the clinical and radiographic results of the internal fixation using Polarus humeral nails for fractures of the proximal humerus. Materials and methods  From January 2001 to April 2006, 54 shoulders of 54 patients (44 females, 10 males) underwent the intramedullary fixation using Polarus humeral nail. Mean age of the patients was 66-year-old (39–89) at the time of the surgery. Fracture-type by Neer classification was 2-part (29 shoulders), 3-part (22 shoulders) and 4-part (3 shoulders). The clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated. Results  All the shoulders after osteosynthesis obtained bone-union. There was no osteonecrosis of the humeral head. Functional outcome measured by JOA score averaged 81 points. Totally 43 patients (79%) had satisfactory to excellent results. Varus deformity was seen in 4 shoulders (8%) and the deformity of the greater tuberosity in 4 (8%). Conclusion  The Polarus intramedullary humeral nail is effective for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures.     

Fixation of proximal humeral fractures with the Polarus nail

Thirty patients with fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by internal fixation with an intramedullary locked nail. Fourteen of these patients were more than 60 years of age; 23 patients had 2-part fractures (surgical neck fractures) and were operated on within an average of 3 days after injury. At follow-up, 20 (80%) of 25 patients showed satisfactory to excellent functional outcomes, as measured by Constant score. All but 1 fracture progressed to clinical and radiologic union. The good functional results indicate that the Polarus nail is a satisfactory mechanical device that can be used in the treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in both the young and the elderly with osteopenic bone.     

Treatment of three- and four-part proximal humeral fractures with locking proximal humerus plate

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of the locking proximal humerus plate to treat proximal humerus fractures.

Design

A retrospective clinical trial.

Setting

Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital.

Patients

Sixty-eight consecutive patients with three- or four-part fractures of the proximal humerus were treated with locking proximal humerus plates.

Intervention

The deltopectoral anterolateral acromial approach was used to the proximal humerus; open reduction and locking proximal humerus plate were applied.

Main outcome measurements

Constant Score was used to measure the shoulder functional recovery, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to measure subjective evaluation of pain. The radiology was observed.

Results

After average 26.7 months, the average Constant Score was 72.6 ± 13.2 points and the average VAS was 1.2 ± 0.8 points. All the complications such as screw perforation into the glenohumeral joint, screws loosening, soft tissue infections, avascular necrosis and delayed union occurred in eight cases (11.8 %).

Conclusions

The effectiveness of the locking proximal humerus plate was similar to other published literatures on treating fractures of the proximal humerus; however, a lower complications rate in short follow-up time was observed in this study. It may potentially provide a favorable option for treating three- or four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. Dealing with each particular fracture pattern, surgeons should have a decision of appropriate way to internal fixation.     

切开复位内固定治疗肱骨近端三、四部分骨折

目的 观察切开复位内固定治疗肱骨近端三、四部分骨折的疗效。方法 37例肱骨近端三、四部分骨折采用切开复位内固定治疗。内固定方法包括AOT形钢板21例、Neer双张力带钢丝9例、AOT形钢板 Neer双张力带钢丝7例。术后按美国肩肘关节医师学会的肩关节评分系统进行疗效评估。结果 术后患肩基本无痛或轻微疼痛。比较健侧肩关节功能评分,患肩平均上举幅度恢复至健侧的75.35％,内旋恢复至71.38％,外旋恢复至70.79％,完成7项日常生活动作能力恢复至健侧的83.48％。显示总体疗效良好。结论 AOT型钢板适用于骨质条件好,肱骨头关节端骨块骨量多,肱骨大、小结节骨片较大,肱骨干骺端较粉碎的患者。反之则以Neer双张力带钢丝为佳。对骨质疏松,肱骨头关节端骨块骨量少,肱骨干骺端粉碎伴骨缺损患者,干骺端结构性植骨后,则联合使用两方法。     

人工肱骨头置换治疗肱骨近端三、四部分骨折

目的探讨人工肱骨头置换治疗肱骨近端骨折,术中应注意的关键问题. 方法采用Thompson入路行人工肱骨头置换术23例. 术后随访6～36个月,平均随访21.1个月.用ASES评分对患肩进行术后功能评估.结果医师客观评定:全部患者肩关节活动明显改善,肌力恢复良好,肩关节稳定,5例轻压痛,1例发生撞击.患者主观评定:疼痛平均102分,肩关节稳定平均106分,完成10个日常生活动作22例,完成7个日常生活动作1例.复查X线片显示人工肱骨头位置良好,无假体松动,肱骨大、小结节骨折愈合. 结论术中肩周软组织保护及修复,人工肱骨头假体安装和肱骨大、小结节解剖重建是提高人工肱骨头置换术疗效的关键技术.     

肱骨近端三或四部分骨折治疗方式选择

肱骨近端骨折在临床上较为常见,三或四部分骨折治疗方式的选择存在较大争议。对移位不明显和稳定骨折,保守治疗、闭合复位经皮穿针、缝线捆扎及髓内钉固定的疗效较好;对不稳定骨折,接骨板内固定技术有一定优势,特别是锁定接骨板更适用于老年骨质疏松患者;对肱骨头缺乏软组织附着或技术上不可能重建的肱骨近端骨折,则应考虑人工肩关节置换术。一般而言,三部分骨折行切开复位内固定的疗效较好,四部分骨折行锁定接骨板与人工肩关节置换术的疗效则无明显差异。临床上应根据患者肱骨头血供情况、年龄、骨量及健康状况等选择适宜的治疗方式。目前的临床研究结果难以有效指导治疗方式的选择,有待更大样本的前瞻性随机对照研究报道。     

Internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures using the Polarus intramedullary nail

INTRODUCTION: It has been stated that proximal humeral fractures are the last unsolved fractures in orthopedics. In this study, we evaluate the results of the Polarus nail, in order to constitute to the controversial problem of the treatment of proximal humerus fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 2003 and 2005, 27 patients with severely displaced proximal humeral fractures were treated with the Polarus intramedullary system. The fractures were classified according to the Neer classification system. There were 16 2-part fractures and 11 3-part fractures. At the 12-months follow up we graded the clinical outcome of the patients according to the Neer scoring system. RESULTS: The duration from time of injury to operation ranged from 1 to 6 days. The mean operative time was 55 min and no need of blood transfusion was recorded. Bony union was obtained in 27 patients. There were no cases of nonunion and the period from operation to the appearance of sufficient bridging callus on radiographs was 5-11 weeks (mean 6 weeks). In one patient, a backed-out proximal screw was recorded. Stiffness of the shoulder was seen in one patient and avascular necrosis of the head of humerus in another. Related to the clinical outcome, six patients had an excellent result, 15 patients had a satisfactory result, four patients had an unsatisfactory result, and two patients had a poor result. The 77.78% of the patients had an excellent or satisfactory clinical outcome. There was significant difference in the functional outcome between patients younger than 65 years (91.55) and those older than 65 years (80.22) (P < 0.05). No significant difference was recorded in the Neer score between the patients with a 2-part fracture and the patients with a 3-part fracture (80.18) (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The Polarus nail is designed to provide stable fixation with a straightforward insertion and targeting procedure. The fact that 77.78% of the patients had an excellent or satisfactory clinical outcome, suggest that Polarus humeral rod system can be a worthy alternative to traditional operative methods for displaced proximal fractures of the humerus.     

Mid-term results of internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures with the Philos plate

Objective

To report our experience from the use of the Philos^® plate for the treatment of three- and four-part proximal humeral fractures and to investigate factors influencing the final outcome.

Materials and methods

Between April 2005 and September 2007, 29 Philos plates were implanted in 17 women and 12 men, with a mean age of 62.3 years (range: 28–80 years). Positioning of the plate was performed under fluoroscopic control, through a deltopectoral approach and with the patient in the beach chair position. 27 patients were available for follow-up (mean: 17.9 months; range: 12–39). Follow-up included plain shoulder radiographs and functional assessment with Constant–Murley score.

Results

Healing of the fracture occurred uneventfully within 6 months. In three patients, humeral head collapsed due to aseptic necrosis after fracture healing and the plate had to be removed in two cases. In one patient, fracture healing occurred in >10° varus displacement. The clinical result according to the Constant–Murley score was 86 points (range: 58–112).

Conclusions

Internal fixation with the Philos plate seems to be a reliable option in the operative treatment of upper end humeral fractures, especially in osteoporotic bone. It allows secure fracture fixation and quick shoulder mobilisation, while quick and uneventful fracture healing and very satisfactory clinical results are achieved.     

Kapandji pinning and tuberosities fixation of three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus

Purpose

The Kapandji pinning was initially described for the treatment of surgical neck fractures of the humerus in young patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate functional and radiological outcomes of the Kapandji modified technique in displaced complex three- and four-part fractures.

Methods

From 2005 to 2009, 32 patients (23 three-part and nine four-part fractures) were included retrospectively. The mean age was 63 years old (range, 22–86), and the dominant shoulder was involved in 40 % of the cases.

Results

At a mean follow up of 25 months (12–72), the mean absolute Constant score achieved 68 points (35–98) and adjusted score 80 % (47–100). Patients had an average forward elevation of the shoulder of 132° (80°–180°), an average external rotation of 36° (0°–90°), and an average internal rotation to the level of L1 (sacrum to the level of T6). The older the patients were the worst was the active anterior elevation recovery (r = −0.3; p = 0.01). Reduction and fixation of initial varus-displaced fractures was not as reliable as in valgus. In eight cases (25 %), K-wire migrations were observed and were correlated with age over 70 years old (p = 0.001). Two partial osteolysis of the greater tuberosity and two avascular necrosis of the humeral head (one was associated with a non-union) were identified. Moreover, three patients developed adhesive capsulitis.

Conclusion

The Kapandji technique with fixation of tuberosities provides satisfactory results for the treatment of complex proximal fractures of the humerus. However, we do not recommend this technique for patients older than 70 years and in cases of varus displaced fractures.     

切开复位内固定治疗陈旧性肱骨近端骨折

目的 探讨采用切开复位内固定治疗陈旧性肱骨近端骨折的临床效果.方法 2005年1月至2008年7月,采用肱骨近端锁定钢板治疗陈旧性肱骨近端骨折患者26例,男11例,女15例;年龄22～81岁,平均49.3岁;左侧16例,右侧10例.手术距受伤时间22～510 d,平均88 d.骨折类型:两部分外科颈骨折12例,两部分小结节骨折1例,两部分大结节骨折7例,三部分大结节骨折3例,四部分骨折2例(均非外展嵌插型骨折),头劈裂型骨折1例.其中6例患者合并其他部位骨折.应用ASES评分、Constant评分、UCLA评分以及SST问卷进行功能评分,并记录肩关节活动范围、疼痛程度,按不同性别、年龄、伤侧、手术次数、是否存在其他损伤进行多因素方差分析;对手术时间和结果进行相关分析;并对骨折类型、手术方式、是否出现并发症进行比较.结果 26例患者随访时间为12～30个月,平均16.9个月.肩关节活动范围平均为:前屈上举137.3°±35.1°,外旋28.9°±24.1°,内旋达T_(10)水平.VAS评分为(0.7±1.2)分;Constant评分为(83.1±17.9)分;UCLA评分为(28.9±6.0)分;SST为8.7个.不同性别组仅在内旋活动方面存在明显差异.不同年龄、伤侧、手术次数、手术时间、固定方式、骨折类型、是否出现并发症之间无统计学差异.结论 陈旧性肱骨近端骨折在规范治疗的前提下,可以采用切开复位内固定进行治疗.     

Clinical results of using the proximal humeral internal locking system plate for internal fixation of displaced proximal humeral fractures

Proximal humerus fractures are accounting for 4-5% of all fractures with increasing incidence. Proximal Humeral Internal Locking System (PHILOS) plate is a new plate which permits early mobility and lowers the risk of complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome and the complication rate after using this plate. Between 2006-2008, 37 patients with displaced 2-, 3-, and 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus underwent surgery using PHILOS plate. The mean range of follow-up was 12 months. Twenty patients were aged 60 years and younger, and 17 were aged older than 60 years. The average American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score at the final follow-up was 77.62. According to Michener and colleagues classification, 5.4% of patients had an excellent outcome, 72.9% were minimally functionally limited, 16.2% were moderately functionally limited, and 5.4% were maximally functionally limited. The average ASES score between patients 60 years and older and those 60 years and younger was not different significantly. One patient developed avascular necrosis of the humeral head, 2 patients developed an infection, and no patients developed a nonunion. Fixation with PHILOS plate can be considered a good method with high union rates for this kind of fracture, especially in the older population with osteoporotic bone.     

Hemiarthroplasty for three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures

Displaced three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures are among the most challenging shoulder conditions to manage. Because of the risk of symptomatic malunion, nonunion, and humeral head osteonecrosis, surgical management is preferred. Locking plate technology has provided an alternative to hemiarthroplasty for certain three- and four-part fracture patterns, even in the setting of osteopenic bone. Prosthetic humeral head replacement has been advocated for head-splitting fractures and fracture-dislocations as well as four-part fractures with significant initial varus displacement (>20°). Technical challenges, including obtaining proper humeral head height, retroversion, and optimal positioning and fixation of the tuberosities, have a substantial effect on patient outcomes.     

The Polarus intramedullary nail for proximal humeral fractures Outcome in 28 patients followed for 1 year

Background?One of the new treatment options for proximal humeral fractures is the minimally invasive intramedullary nail. In this study, we reviewed the early clinical results after 1 year.

Patients?and methods 35 patients with proximal humeral fractures were treated using the Polarus nail. In 14 cases the initial treatment was operative; the other 21 patients were initially treated nonoperatively. 19 patients had a 2-part fracture, 5 had a 3-part fracture and 2 had a 4-part fracture. In 9 patients the fracture extended metaphyseally. The functional outcome was assessed by the Constant score.

Results?28 patients were available for 1-year followup. 17 patients showed excellent functional outcome (with an average Constant score of 81%). 6 patients required revision surgery, 1 because of nonunion and 1 because of an avascular necrosis. 4 others were reoperated because of inadequate position of the osteosynthesis or migration of the screws.

Interpretation?The Polarus nail is of value for (displaced) 2-, 3-, and even 4-part proximal humeral fractures and enables early postoperative mobilization with a limited amount of pain.     

The Polarus intramedullary nail for proximal humeral fractures: outcome in 28 patients followed for 1 year

Background One of the new treatment options for proximal humeral fractures is the minimally invasive intramedullary nail. In this study, we reviewed the early clinical results after 1 year.

Patients and methods 35 patients with proximal humeral fractures were treated using the Polarus nail. In 14 cases the initial treatment was operative; the other 21 patients were initially treated nonoperatively. 19 patients had a 2-part fracture, 5 had a 3-part fracture and 2 had a 4-part fracture. In 9 patients the fracture extended metaphyseally. The functional outcome was assessed by the Constant score.

Results 28 patients were available for 1-year followup. 17 patients showed excellent functional outcome (with an average Constant score of 81%). 6 patients required revision surgery, 1 because of nonunion and 1 because of an avascular necrosis. 4 others were reoperated because of inadequate position of the osteosynthesis or migration of the screws.

Interpretation The Polarus nail is of value for (displaced) 2-, 3-, and even 4-part proximal humeral fractures and enables early postoperative mobilization with a limited amount of pain.     

35例肩关节脱位伴肱骨近端三部分、四部分骨折手术治疗临床分析

目的 探讨肩关节脱位伴肱骨近端三部分、四部分骨折切开复位钢板及不可吸收线缝合固定的疗效.方法 35例肩关节脱位伴肱骨近端三部分、四部分骨折患者行切开复位钢板及不可吸收线缝合固定.结果 所有病例均获随访,随访时间为6～12个月.所有骨折均获骨性愈合,无伤口感染、骨不连、肩关节僵硬等并发症.根据CMS(Constant-Murley score)评分系统评分:优32例,良3例.结论 肩关节脱位伴肱骨近端三部分、四部分骨折患者行切开复位钢板固定及不可吸收线缝合重建肩袖功能,疗效满意.     

A preliminary clinical experience with Polarus nail for proximal humeral fractures. A pilot study on ten patients

The Polarus nail has recently been popularised to fix proximal humeral fractures. In the current pilot study we reviewed the early results obtained using this nail. Ten patients with proximal humeral fracture (four pathological, 5 traumatic and one non-union) were fixed using a Polarus nail. The fractures were classified according to Neer (7 two-parts and 3 three-part fractures). The mean followup was 22 months (6–39) months. The following criteria were assessed: pain, range of shoulder movement and function. Seven patients were satisfied with their operation, their fractures healed in a mean period of 3 months (2–4 months). No postoperative neurovascular complications were encountered; the re-operation rate, was however 30%. Conclusion: in the authors' brief pilot study in 10 patients, and despite the heterogenous fracture types, we came in to conclusion that the indications for using Polarus nail is limited due to the high complications rate associated with the procedure when used for displaced three or four part surgical neck fracture of humerus.