Modified rush pin technique for two- or three-part proximal humeral fractures.

PURPOSE: To report the outcomes of modified Rush pin fixation for proximal humeral fractures.

METHODS

42 men and 20 women aged 19 to 94 (mean, 64) years with 2- or 3-part proximal humeral fractures underwent reduction and fixation using the modified Rush pin technique. 11 patients died from reasons unrelated to the surgery.

RESULTS

Of 40 (out of 51) patients completing a subjective functional assessment using an Oxford Shoulder Questionnaire, 28 (70%) had 2-part and 10 (25%) had 3-part displaced fractures, and the remaining 2 (5%) had fracture-dislocations (one being 2-part and one 3-part). 25 (63%) patients were very satisfied (including one with a 3-part fracture after 6 months of rehabilitation), 7 (17%) were moderately satisfied, and 8 (20%) were not satisfied. There were 8 complications, including pin cut-out from the proximal fragment (n=2), proximal pin migration (n=2), distal pin migration (n=1), cortical perforation during surgery (n=1), mild ulnar nerve symptoms (n=1). No patients had non-union, myositis ossificans, avascular necrosis of the humeral head, or axillary nerve injury.

CONCLUSION

The modified Rush pin fixation minimises tissue dissection; the implants are cheap and readily available; and the technical expertise is easily learnt. This technique is a suitable alternative of fixing proximal humeral fractures, especially in the elderly.