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Updated: May 1, 2026
Development of a Novel Internal Fixation Model for Rat Radial Fractures: Fracture Healing Assessment and Dorsal Root Ganglion Isolation
Published on: March 13, 2026
[Fractures of the proximal humerus in the elderly : Osteosynthesis versus joint replacement]
1Klinik für Unfall- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Klinikum der RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland, ggradl@ukaachen.de.
Background:
Expected changes in population demographics will have significant implications for society and health care provision for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in the elderly.
Objectives:
This article presents the incidence and clinical characteristics of geriatric fractures of the proximal humerus, a description of therapeutic options and treatment recommendations.
Methods:
The published scientific data were reviewed and current opinion available to guide patient care are presented.
Results:
The majority of fractures of the proximal humerus that require operative treatment are amenable to reconstruction. Primary arthroplasty is usually reserved for comminuted fractures with delayed presentation, head-splitting fractures or those in which the humeral head is devoid of soft tissue attachments. Secondary replacement may be required in cases of fixation failure and symptomatic avascular necrosis.
Conclusion:
Decision-making is dependent on the fracture pattern as well as on patient and surgeon-related factors.
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