Stabilisation of pathological humerus fractures using cement augmented plating: A case series

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic oncology
• Surgical stabilization of bone metastases

Background:

• Humerus fractures are common in metastatic bone disease, causing pain and functional decline.
• Current treatments like intramedullary nailing have limitations in fixation rigidity.
• Advanced techniques are needed for effective management of pathological humerus fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the survivorship and clinical outcomes of cement-augmented plating for pathological humerus fractures.
• To compare cement-augmented plating with traditional intramedullary nailing.

Main Methods:

• A case series of 19 patients with pathological humerus fractures treated with curettage, cement augmentation, and plating.
• Evaluation of construct survivorship, mechanical failures, re-operations, wound complications, pain control, and functional outcomes (Toronto Extremity Salvage Score).

Main Results:

• 100% construct survivorship with no mechanical failures or re-operations.
• No post-operative wound complications observed.
• Excellent early pain control in 18 patients and satisfactory functional outcomes (mean TESS 79/100).

Conclusions:

• Cement-augmented plating is a suitable alternative to intramedullary nailing for pathological humerus fractures.
• This technique provides immediate rigidity and allows early unrestricted function.
• It effectively addresses concerns associated with conventional fixation methods.