Percutaneous Pinning for Proximal Humerus Fractures: Insights From a Five-Year Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Musculoskeletal System

Background:

• Proximal humerus fractures are common, especially in elderly individuals.
• Percutaneous pinning is a minimally invasive surgical technique for fracture stabilization.
• This study assesses outcomes of percutaneous pinning for these fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of percutaneous pinning for proximal humerus fractures.
• To determine the efficacy and safety of this minimally invasive approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 13 patients treated between 2018-2023.
• Inclusion criteria: completion of at least three-month follow-up.
• Data collected on demographics, fracture details, surgical procedures, complications, and functional outcomes.

Main Results:

• 92% female patients, mean age 60; 92% three-part fractures from low-energy trauma.
• 77% achieved anatomical alignment and radiological healing by four weeks.
• 92% had excellent/good alignment; 85% reported no/mild pain and good functional recovery.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous pinning yields reliable outcomes for selected proximal humerus fractures.
• Suture anchors are crucial for stabilizing the greater tuberosity and calcar.
• The technique demonstrates efficacy and safety with satisfactory pain relief and functional use.