Locking plate osteosynthesis in displaced 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus A systematic review of benefits and harms

• Published in: Acta orthopaedica Vol. 82; no. 4; pp. 475 - 481
• Main Authors: Brorson, Stig, Frich, Lars H, Winther, Annika, Hróbjartsson, Asbjørn
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basingstoke Taylor & Francis 01.08.2011; Informa Healthcare
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Injuries of the limb. Injuries of the spine; Medical sciences; Traumas. Diseases due to physical agents; Proximal; Fracture dislocation; Treatment; Surgery; Orthopedics; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Osteosynthesis; Review; Bone; Humerus; Bibliographic review; Locking
• ISSN: 1745-3674; 1745-3682
• DOI: 10.3109/17453674.2011.588856

Background and purpose There is considerable uncertainty about the optimal treatment of displaced 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus. Within the last decade, locking plate technology has been considered a breakthrough in the treatment of these complex injuries. Methods We systematically identified and reviewed clinical studies on the benefits and harms after osteosynthesis with locking plates in displaced 4-part fractures. Results We included 14 studies with 374 four-part fractures. There were 10 case series, 3 retrospective observational comparative studies, 1 prospective observational comparative study, and no randomized trials. Small studies with a high risk of bias precluded reliable estimates of functional outcome. High rates of complications (16-64%) and reoperations (11-27%) were reported. Interpretation The empirical foundation for the value of locking plates in displaced 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus is weak. We emphasize the need for well-conducted randomized trials and observational studies.