Utilization of a Utility Plate in the Treatment of Periprosthetic Humeral Shaft Fractures Around a Shoulder Arthroplasty

Periprosthetic humerus fractures that occur around a shoulder arthroplasty can be treated nonoperatively, with revision arthroplasty, or with surgical fixation with osteosynthesis. The decision of which technique to employ depends on the unique fracture characteristics and the stability of the prothesis. When the prothesis is stable and able to be retained, limited bone stock about the prothesis for fixation makes these fractures challenging to treat. Fixation of these fractures with a utility plate that provides for the placement of fixed angle screws in a variety of orientations creates a robust fixation construct around the retained protheses. Because each patient and fracture are unique, there are few comparative studies involving different surgical techniques. A case report demonstrating the utilization of a utility plate to fixate periprosthetic humerus fractures is presented.