Open reduction and internal fixation of three-part fractures of the proximal humerus

Eleven patients with 12 three-part fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using AO/ASIF buttress plating. All of the fractures healed. There were no failures of fixation. Nine of these patients returned for a follow up of more than 2 years and had a satisfactory rating using Neer's shoulder rating system. Five patients who had an acromioplasty at the time of their initial surgery had slightly better function and range of motion than the remaining patients. Successful operative treatment requires accurate definition of the fracture pattern, careful attention to the details of internal fixation, and supervised postoperative rehabilitation.