Shoulder hemiarthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures: analysis of clinical and radiographic outcomes at midterm follow-up: a series of 51 patients

Shoulder hemiarthroplasty has historically been the gold standard treatment for proximal humeral fractures not suitable to open reduction and internal fixation. In the last decades, reverse shoulder arthroplasty has gained more and more importance. Aim of this study is to retrospectively analyze subjective and objective outcomes of a group of consecutive patients. Fifty-one patients were evaluated with a mean follow-up of 18 months (range 12–60). For all the cases, the same surgical technique was performed in all cases. Range of motion, Constant–Murley score, ponderate Constant–Murley score, visual analog score and a patients’ self-assessment scale were calculated. Anatomic tuberosities healing, stem positioning or mobilization were evaluated on postoperative X-rays and follow-up CT-scans. Statistical analysis was performed to calculate a correlation between subjective and objective results. Thirty-five patients (75%) declared to be satisfied of the operated shoulder. The mean CMS was 50 (17–91), the mean pCMS 72 (16–111). The mean forward flexion measured was 98° (40°–170°), the mean external rotation with adducted arm 22° (0°–60°), the mean internal rotation at sacrum (gluteus-T12). Four implants needed revision. Forty-seven stems were correctly positioned; 84.3% of tuberosities was anatomic or low positioned and consolidated in 74.5% of cases. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlation between CMS, pCMS, VAS and subjective satisfaction and between anatomic tuberosities healing and 3-part fractures. HA implant is a valid and reliable technique for the treatment of proximal humeral fracture. From our data, patients’ satisfaction depends upon pain relief more than upon restore of function.