OBJECTIVETo investigate the indication, perioperative announcements, selection of prosthesis and clinical results of shoulder hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of complex proximal humeral fractures.

METHODSA total of 55 patients who suffered from complex proximal humeral fractures were treated by shoulder hemiarthroplasty. The mean age was 55.6 years and mean follow-up period was 25.1 months. The scoring system modification for hemiarthroplasty (SSMH) had been adopted for evaluation at the latest follow-up.

RESULTSThe pain was obviously relieved in all patients. Fifty patients were painless and 5 patients had slight pain. The mean range of motion was 100 degrees (90 degrees-110 degrees) in abduction, 95 degrees (80 degrees-100 degrees) in forward flexion, 35 degrees (30 degrees-40 degrees) in external rotation and internal rotation was confined at L2 level (L1-L3). The mean SSMH score was 27.9 (24-29). Fifty patients (90.1%) were satisfied with the clinical outcome.

CONCLUSIONSShoulder hemiarthroplasty is an effective method to treat complex proximal humeral fractures. The proper selection of patients and prosthesis, good operation skill and enough functional exercise are the key points of successful treatment.