Results of uncemented hemiarthroplasty as primary treatment of severe proximal humerus fractures in the elderly.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to analyze functional and radiologic results of a consecutive series of elderly patients who underwent uncemented hemiarthroplasty as primary treatment of complex proximal humeral fractures.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients with severe proximal humerus fracture (three or four fragments and three- or four-fragment fracture dislocations) were treated with uncemented proximal humerus hemiarthroplasty. Patients were evaluated using the Constant-Murley Score, the Quick scale Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick-DASH) Score, range of motion, residual pain, radiographic parameters, and complications including clinical and radiologic data of mobilization.

RESULTS

After a mean postoperative period of 20.57 months (range 12-42 months), the mean Constant-Murley Score was 44 points (20-57), the mean Quick-DASH score was 24 points (16-39), postoperative pain according to a mean visual analogue scale was 1 (0-8), active abduction was 50° (30-135), and active flexion 70° (20-120). There were no cases of infection, deep vein thrombosis, dislocation, blood transfusions, or reoperation because of prosthetic loosening. Bivariate analysis of demographic data, radiologic findings, and other variables showed associations between duration of surgery and a higher Quick-DASH score (0.606; p = 0.037), and the number of sessions of rehabilitation with a higher Quick-DASH score (0.708; p = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of treatment of severe proximal humerus fractures in the elderly with an uncemented hemiarthroplasty are safe and promising; however, a comparative cohort study (cemented vs. uncemented) and long-term follow-up are still needed.