Treatment of Neer type 4 impacted valgus fractures of the proximal humerus with open reduction, elevation, and grafting
Abstract
Methods : Ten patients (6 females, 4 males; mean age 54 years; range 35 to 67 years) with Neer type 4 impacted valgus fractures of the proximal humerus underwent biological reconstruction including open reduction, elevation of the head fragment, grafting, and suture fixation of tuberosities. All the patients were assessed by computed tomography preo p e r a t i v e l y. Tricortical iliac crest autograft was used in three patients and lyophilized iliac allograft was used in seven patients. The mean time to surgery was three days (range 1 to 10 days). Radiographic and clinical results were evaluated after a mean follow-up of 38.8 months (range 24 to 49 months). Constant and DASH (disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand) scores were used for functional evaluation.
Results: All the fractures united within six to eight weeks. On final examinations, the mean forward flexion of the shoulder was 154° (range 120° to 175°) and external rotation was 44° (35° to 55°). The mean Constant and DASH scores were 81.5 (range 72 to 90) and 23 (range 17 to 38), respectively. The mean inclination angle of the humerus head decreased from 178° (170°-200°) to 134° (130°-145°) postoperatively. None of the patients had signs of osteonecrosis in the humeral head. All the patients were pleased with the outcome.
Conclusion: The biologic reconstruction technique used with graft support may be an effective alternative treatment in selected patients with type 4 valgus impacted fractures of the proximal humerus.
Keywords
Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Health Care Administration
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Ata Atalar
This is me
Mehmet Demirhan
This is me
Mustafa Uysal
This is me
Aksel Seyahi
This is me
Publication Date
April 18, 2007
Submission Date
March 7, 2014
Acceptance Date
-
Published in Issue
Year 2007 Volume: 41 Number: 2