[Functional results for Neer III-IV fractures treated with hemiarthroplasty]

To assess the functional results of patients who sustained Neer III-IV shoulder fractures treated with hemiarthroplasty.

Descriptive, ambispective, cross-sectional study. From January to December 2011 patient records were reviewed, a functional assessment was performed using the Constant scale, and the DASH questionnaire was applied. Data was analyzed with the SPSS software, descriptive statistics and frequency analysis.

Sixteen patients were evaluated, mean age was 60.9 years (p = 0.004); females represented 56.3% (p = 0.001). The mechanism of injury was low energy trauma in 93.8%. According to the Constant scale, whose maximum score is 100, the score of our population was 40.75 (+/- 14.42). The highest prevalence rates corresponded to: middle pain, 8 (50%); work with full performance, 7 (43.75%); painful range of motion up to the xyphoid process (37.5%). Ranges of motion were as follows: abduction 30-60 degrees 10 (62.5% p = 0.004), flexion 30-60 degrees 6 (37.5%), external rotation, 14 (87.5%) with the hand behind the head, internal rotation up to the lumbosacral region, 7 (43.75% p = 0.005). Power of up to 3 kilograms, 5 (31.3% p = 0.005). Poor results were seen in 13 (81.3%) patients. The DASH questionnaire results were: disability/symptoms, 12 (75%) and special activities, 7 (43.75%) good results; in the work module, 8 (50%) fair results. Satisfaction with the surgical procedure, 87.5 percent.

In this patient sample the function of the operated shoulder was considered as poor according to the Constant scale; it was good considering the symptoms and special activities, and fair for the work module, according to the DASH questionnaire.