OBJECTIVETo investigate the clinical effects of PHILOS plate with injectable artificial bone for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients.

METHODSFrom March 2007 to March 2009,17 patients who suffered from proximal humeral fractures were retrospectively studied. There were 7 males, 10 females, with an average age of 71 years (ranged, 66 to 81 years). Nine patients were caused by falling, seven patients were caused by traffic accidents,and one patient was hit by heavy object. According to the Neer classification, 9 patients were type III and 8 patients were type IV. All the patients were treated with PHILOS plate internal fixation combined with injectable artificial bone. Assessment was based on the Constan-Murley shoulder score and percentage Constant-Murley score.

RESULTSThe mean period of follow-up was 16 months (ranged, 8 to 25 months). All the patients obtained bone union in an average of 3 months (2.5 to 3.5 months). There were no complications such as deep infection, nonunion or failure of fixation. The Constant-Murley score of the injured side was mean (86.50 +/- 10.50) (ranged, 75 to 95). The clinical outcomes were excellent in 9 cases, good in 6 cases, moderate in 2 cases.

CONCLUSIONThe treatment of proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients with application of PHILOS plate combined with injectable artificial bone can get satisfactory clinical effect especially suitable for osteoporosis and comminuted proximal humeral fractures.