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Updated: May 10, 2026
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Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
[Humeral head replacement in acute proximal humerus fractures]
M Tauber1, P Magosch, P Habermeyer
1Zentrum für Schulter- und Ellenbogenchirurgie, ATOS-Klinik München, Effnerstraße 38, Munich, Germany. tauber@atos-muenchen.de
Der Unfallchirurg
|July 2, 2013
Summary
Humeral head replacement is indicated for complex proximal humerus fractures. Careful implantation of special prosthetics ensures reliable functional outcomes, though revision rates are around 11%.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Traumatology
Context:
- Complex proximal humerus fractures with avascular head fragments or unreconstructable types necessitate humeral head replacement.
- Specialized prosthetic designs aim for anatomical restoration and stable tuberosity fixation, crucial for functional outcomes.
- Osteolysis and rotator cuff deficiency are potential complications impacting long-term results.
Purpose:
- To outline the indications and surgical considerations for humeral head replacement.
- To discuss the role of prosthetic design in restoring shoulder biomechanics.
- To evaluate the functional outcomes and complication rates associated with this procedure.
Summary:
- Humeral head replacement is indicated for severe proximal humerus fractures, utilizing modular prosthetics for anatomical restoration.
- Successful outcomes depend on precise implantation to ensure stable tuberosity fixation and minimize risks like osteolysis.
- Functional results show moderate Constant scores (50-60) and low pain, with an 11% overall revision rate.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of surgical technique in achieving reliable functional results after humeral head replacement.
- Identifies prosthetic design and tuberosity fixation as critical factors for long-term success.
- Suggests inverse prosthetic design as an alternative for elderly patients with poor bone quality, potentially reducing complications.
