Management of Proximal Humeral Nonunions and Malunions

Surgical treatment of proximal humeral nonunions and malunions are technically challenging. Osteosynthesis with bone grafting for the treatment of nonunions is indicated in young, active patients with adequate bone stock in the proximal fragment and preservation of the glenohumeral articular surfaces. Corrective osteotomy may be a reasonable option for proximal humeral malunions in young patients without evidence of degenerative joint disease. Arthroplasty for proximal humerus nonunions and malunions has a guarded outcome because of limitations in shoulder motion, but pain relief is more consistently improved upon.