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International Orthopaedics

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01-07-2014 | Original Paper

The amount of humeral head impaction of proximal humeral fractures fixed with the Humerusblock device

Authors: Stefano Carbone, Philipp Moroder, Valerio Arceri, Roberto Postacchini, Stefano Gumina

Published in: International Orthopaedics | Issue 7/2014

Abstract

Purpose

The Humerusblock is a minimally invasive device allowing fixation of proximal humeral fractures. A drawback of the device is possible K-wire perforation of the head with the need for early removal of the implant. We assessed the amount of humeral head impaction and its role in the postoperative varus/valgus deviation of the humeral head in fractures of the upper humerus treated with Humerusblock.

Methods

Fractures were classified according to the Codman-Lego system. The length of the posteromedial metaphyseal extension and integrity of medial hinge were measured; metaphyseal comminution was assessed. Accuracy of fracture reduction was classified as excellent to poor. An original method of measurement of amount of postoperative impaction of the humeral head was developed. The impaction and varus/valgus inclination of the heads were measured comparing postoperative and three-month follow-up radiographs. Constant score and its relation to sintering was calculated at 12-month follow-up.

Results

Forty-three fractures were available for follow-up. The amount of humeral head impaction was 3.9 mm on average and was directly correlated with patient’s age, sex, Codman-Lego classification, varus inclination and mataphyseal comminution. The postoperative cervico-diaphyseal angle was restored in 35 cases, with 81 % good results. The Humerusblock was removed in 41 % of cases because of K-wire perforation of the humeral head. A negative correlation was found between impaction and Constant score.

Conclusions

The amount of humeral head impaction is related to patients’ age, sex, and fracture patterns, being the most prone to compaction those with metaphyseal comminution. Humeral head impaction negatively affects final Constant score.

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Title: The amount of humeral head impaction of proximal humeral fractures fixed with the Humerusblock device
Authors: Stefano Carbone
Philipp Moroder
Valerio Arceri
Roberto Postacchini
Stefano Gumina
Publication date: 01-07-2014
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Orthopaedics / Issue 7/2014
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-014-2327-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The amount of humeral head impaction of proximal humeral fractures fixed with the Humerusblock device

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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