Avoiding Complications of Locking Plating for Proximal Humerus Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Proximal humeral fractures are highly prevalent, particularly in elderly individuals with osteoporosis.
• Treatment options for these fractures are diverse, ranging from conservative management to surgical interventions like internal fixation or arthroplasty.
• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using locking plates has become a preferred surgical approach due to advancements in osteosynthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the most frequent complications associated with ORIF of proximal humeral fractures.
• To present intraoperative strategies for mitigating these common complications.
• To enhance surgical decision-making and patient outcomes in managing proximal humeral fractures.

Main Methods:

• Review of common complications reported in literature for ORIF of proximal humeral fractures.
• Description of intraoperative techniques aimed at complication avoidance.
• Focus on perioperative and hardware-related complications.

Main Results:

• High complication rates, including perioperative and hardware issues, are frequently reported with ORIF using locking plates.
• Specific common complications are detailed, necessitating careful surgical planning and execution.
• Intraoperative techniques can effectively reduce the incidence of these complications.

Conclusions:

• Despite its widespread use, ORIF with locking plates for proximal humeral fractures carries a significant risk of complications.
• Awareness of potential complications and application of specific intraoperative techniques are crucial for successful management.
• This article provides valuable insights for surgeons to minimize adverse events and improve outcomes in treating these common fractures.