Functional follow-up of locking plate fixation of fractures of the proximal humerus

Fractures of the proximal humerus account for 4–5% of all fractures with 80% requiring no surgical treatment. However, the management of the other 20% remains controversial. This study followed a series of 27 patients who had proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) plate fixation of their proximal humeral fractures. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year. We reviewed 27 patients with a mean age of 61.1 years. The patients were classified as per the AO system into type A (n = 11), type B (n = 12) and type C (n = 3) fractures. The mean disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score was 51.8. The mean SF-36 scores for physical and social functions were 68.7 and 88.0, respectively. The mean Constant score was 50.5%. These results how that the PHILOS plate offers good functional outcomes across a spectrum of fracture severities and in an older population group. Its use should be considered where appropriate in the management of displaced proximal humeral fractures.