Current concepts in plate and screw fixation of osteoporotic proximal humerus fractures

SummaryMost surgeons feel that angular stable implants have improve the ability to obtain reliable fixation of an osteoporotic fracture of the proximal humerus fracture, but complications such as varus fracture collapse and screw penetration of the articular surface remain problematic. The use of limited drilling, blunt tipped locking bolts and routine incorporation of the rotator cuff into the internal fixation construct may help limit these complications. It may be of benefit to replace the concept of standard screw fixation of the osteoporotic proximal humerus with a concept of an angular stable scaffold support of the subchondral bone combined with fixation that does not rely on bone quality and utilizes the more predictable fixation of sutures through the rotator cuff attachments.