Conservative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fracture
10.12671/jkfs.2018.31.1.29
- Author:
Hwansub HYUN
1
;
Jonghyun AHN
;
Sang Jin SHIN
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. sjshin622@ewha.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Humerus;
Proximal humeral fracture;
Conservative treatment
- MeSH:
Aged;
Expert Testimony;
Female;
Fractures, Comminuted;
Humans;
Humeral Head;
Humerus;
Necrosis;
Osteoporotic Fractures;
Patient Satisfaction;
Shoulder;
Shoulder Fractures
- From:Journal of the Korean Fracture Society
2018;31(1):29-35
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
A proximal humeral fracture is an osteoporotic fracture that often occurs in elderly women. Approximately 80% of all proximal humeral fractures are non-displaced fractures, which can be treated with conservative treatment to achieve stable union. The treatment plan for fractures involving displaced and comminuted fractures is controversial. Malunion, avascular necrosis of the humeral head, and shoulder stiffness due to conservative treatment can occur but the functional deterioration is low and the patient satisfaction is high. The indications for the conservative management of proximal humeral fractures include a non-displaced fracture and a 2-part fracture, low-functional demanded 3-part fracture, and operative-limited 4-part fracture. Recently, the surgical indications have expanded as technological advances in surgical fixation methods and functional needs of elderly patients are increasing. Current treatment policy decisions tend to be determined by the personal preference and expert opinion rather than by evidence-based decision-making.
