[Arthroscopic implant removal after fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis of the proximal humerus. Technique and initial results in comparison to open implant removal].

BACKGROUND

Implant removal is necessary in up to 25% of patients with plate osteosynthesis after proximal humeral fracture. Our new technique of arthroscopic implant removal offers all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. This study outlines the first results after arthroscopic implant removal in comparison with those of open implant removal.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Twenty patients [median age 64 (30-82) years] had arthroscopic and nine patients [median age 53 (34-76) years] had open implant removal. Median 9.5 months after implant removal subjective patient satisfaction, Constant-Murley Score (CMS) and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) were determined.

RESULTS

Arthroscopic implant removal showed first results comparable to open implant removal. The SST outlined advantages for the arthroscopic technique. In 85% of arthroscopically treated patients concomitant intra-articular lesions were observed.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic implant removal offers all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and first results comparable to open implant removal. The subjective and objective satisfaction of the patients is high. The technique can be applied and established by all skilled arthroscopic shoulder surgeons.