Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for a 4-Part Proximal Humerus Fracture

Proximal humerus fractures account for approximately 5% of all fractures and they are the third most common fracture seen in the elderly population. Complex fracture patterns, including 3-parts and 4-parts, have traditionally been amendable to shoulder hemiarthroplasty. However, several limiting factors, including poor patient satisfaction and low functional outcomes have guided further exploration for other treatment options. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has began to expand its traditional indications of rotator cuff arthropathy, massive rotator cuff tears, failed shoulder arthroplasties, and proximal humerus fracture sequelae. Overall, consistently improved functional outcomes are reported in RSA studies, including an increased postoperative range of motion, specifically external rotation. RSA has began to have a clinically significant role in the management of acute, complex proximal humerus fractures. Our video demonstrates the key features associated with positive patient outcomes, concluding with postoperative clinical videos.