Reducing Postoperative Fracture Displacement After Locked Plating of Proximal Humerus Fractures: Current Concepts

The incidence of proximal humerus fractures in the elderly has been rising. Concomitantly, operative fixation with use of locking plates has been increasing. Postoperative complications of locking plate fixation, particularly in the setting of osteoporotic bone, include screw penetration of the articular surface, progressive fracture displacement, and avascular necrosis. Intraoperative techniques to enhance the fixation construct and reduce complications include use of rotator cuff sutures, bone void fillers (fibular strut allograft, cancellous allograft, autograft, bone cement), appropriate placement of divergent and shorter locking screws, and medial calcar reduction and support. More recent clinical and biomechanical studies suggest that use of these strategies may reduce complications after locked plating of osteoporotic proximal humerus fractures. Furthermore, a multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis may be beneficial in these patients.