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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology

Published in:

01-05-2015 | Original Article

Treatment of unusual proximal humeral fractures using unilateral external fixator: a case series

Authors: Gökçer Uzer, Fatih Yıldız, Mehmet Elmadağ, Kerem Bilsel, Anil Pulatkan

Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 4/2015

Abstract

Objective

To report the functional and radiological results of unusual comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus, treated with ‘closed reduction and external fixation’ (CREF) using hybrid-type unilateral external fixators (EFs).

Patients and methods

Between January 2012 and June 2013, eight patients (mean age 62.6; range 48–84 years) with comminuted proximal humeral fractures extending to the humeral head and one-third proximal diaphysis were treated with CREF using hybrid-type EFs. Functional results were evaluated in terms of shoulder ranges of movement, Constant, DASH, and VAS scores, and radiological results were evaluated using antero-posterior and lateral radiograms of the treated humerus.

Results

The mean follow-up was 16.6 (range 12–28) months. The mean fixator time was 84 (range 63–118) days. The mean range of forward flexion, internal rotation, external rotation, and abduction were 145°, 61.2°, 65°, and 115°, respectively. The mean Constant, DASH, and VAS scores were 79.8, 10, and 1.75, respectively. Seven of the eight patients (87.5 %) healed radiologically. Two complications were observed in two patients: non-union and superficial pin site infection.

Conclusions

In the treatment of unusual, comminuted proximal diaphyseal humeral fractures, CREF using a hybrid-type EF is a minimally invasive, advantageous procedure with acceptable rates of healing, low risk of surgical site infection, and early range of motion.

Level of evidence

Level IV, case series.

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Title: Treatment of unusual proximal humeral fractures using unilateral external fixator: a case series
Authors: Gökçer Uzer
Fatih Yıldız
Mehmet Elmadağ
Kerem Bilsel
Anil Pulatkan
Publication date: 01-05-2015
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology / Issue 4/2015
Print ISSN: 1633-8065
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1068
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-014-1579-9

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Treatment of unusual proximal humeral fractures using unilateral external fixator: a case series

Abstract

Objective

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusions

Level of evidence

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusions

Level of evidence

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