Four-part displaced proximal humeral fractures: treatment with hemiarthroplasty

Between 1996 and 2000 a total of 25 hemiarthroplasties of the shoulder in just as many patients were carried out. A total of 15 were followed-up (minimum 1 year, maximum 5 years, mean 2.5 years; mean age 75.5 years). The Constant score showed a mean of 73.26 points (with a maximum score of 90 and a minimum of 40). One patient obtained a reduced Constant score (40 points) because of severe lesions of the rotator cuff and continuous pain, even during the night. Patients reported that they were satisfied in 75% of cases. We believe that the integrity of the cuff is an essential condition for final success, alongside important indications such as type of fracture, bone quality, age and motivations of the patient, with respect for rules governing method of implantation and protocols for rehabilitation used.