Humeral shaft fractures following TSA

Periprosthetic fractures are difficult postoperative complications after arthroplasty. Fractures that occur intraoperatively should be stabilized at the time of surgery. Revision stems can bypass the fracture. Plates and cerclage wires are another option. Fractures that occur in the postoperative setting may be treated non operatively if the fracture involves the shaft distal to the stem and the stem is stable.Greater tuberosity fractures can also be treated non operatively if the stem is stable. Fractures that result in instability or occur in the setting on an unstable prosthesis require operative revision. Radial nerve palsy is a common complication of operative treatment, and the nerve should be carefully protected.