Locked intramedullary nailing for treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures

• Published in: The Orthopedic clinics of North America Vol. 39; no. 4; p. 417
• Main Authors: Young, Allan A, Hughes, Jeffery S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.10.2008
• Subjects: Algorithms; Bone Nails; Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary - methods; Fractures, Comminuted - surgery; Humans; Patient Selection; Postoperative Care; Prostheses and Implants; Shoulder Fractures - surgery; Treatment Outcome
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ocl.2008.05.001
• ISSN: 0030-5898

Controversy surrounds the optimal technique for fixation of displaced fractures, although locked intramedullary nailing is emerging as a preferred technique in managing displaced proximal humerus fractures in appropriately selected patients. This technique provides stable fracture fixation allowing early postoperative mobilization critical in ensuring a pain-free shoulder with a functional range of motion. Additional advantages include the ability to insert by way of a minimally invasive approach with limited soft tissue dissection, achieve accurate anatomic reduction, provide a secure construct even in the situation of osteopenic bone or comminution, and manage fractures of the proximal humerus extending into the shaft.