Periprosthetic Humeral Fractures During Shoulder Arthroplasty

• DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.h.00439
• Publication Date: 2009-03-02T18:33:23Z
• Authors: George S Athwal; John W Sperling; Damian M Rispoli; Robert H Cofield
• Keywords: Greater Tuberosity

Currently, there is little information available on the treatment and outcome of intraoperative periprosthetic humeral fractures that occur during shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose this study was to report incidence, treatment, of, as well risk factors for, fractures.Between 1980 2002, forty-five occurred arthroplasty at our institution. Twenty-eight primary total arthroplasty, three hemiarthroplasty, fourteen revision Nineteen involved greater tuberosity, sixteen shaft, six metaphysis, tuberosity one both lesser tuberosities. All patients were followed for a minimum two years. At time latest follow-up, outcomes assessed, radiographs examined, relative risks calculated.Over twenty-two-year period, rate institution 1.5%. healed mean seventeen weeks. In group (thirty-one patients), range motion pain scores improved significantly (p < 0.05) follow-up. (fourteen remained unchanged whereas 0.005). Transient nerve injuries in patients. Four displaced postoperatively then treated nonoperatively; all four healed. Significant fracture female sex, surgery, press-fit implants 0.05).The data from present suggest although are associated with high healing, substantial complications, including transient displacement. include implants.