Current perspectives in the treatment of periprosthetic upper extremity fractures

Periprosthetic fractures around the shoulder and elbow are rare and are often difficult to treat. Treatment options depend on the stability of the prosthesis, the location of the fracture, and the bone quality. The basic principles of treatment are that loose or unstable prostheses are removed and revised to a longer prosthesis with the possible addition of cortical struts and/or plate and screws. If the prosthesis is stable, nonoperative measures may be tried initially. In cases of nonunion, surgical treatment is recommended. This article describes the current literature related to periprosthetic fractures around the shoulder and the elbow.