Improved Outcomes Using a Fibular Strut in Proximal Humerus Fracture Fixation.

Improved Outcomes Using a Fibular Strut in Proximal Humerus Fracture Fixation. Orthopedics. 2020 Aug 03;:1-7 Authors: Myers DM, Triplet JJ, Warmoth PJ, Passias BJ, McGowan SP, Taylor BC Abstract Proximal humerus fractures, although common, have high rates of failure after open reduction and internal fixation. The use of a fibular allograft has been explored as a means to decrease complications, particularly varus collapse and the need for revision surgery. The authors performed a retrospective review of 133 proximal humerus fractures managed surgically with locking plates (n=72) or locking plates with fibular allograft intramedullary struts (n=61). Demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were collected and analyzed. The fibular allograft group was more likely to be older (P<.01), be female (P=.04), and have a history of osteoporosis (P=.01). No differences were noted in the proportions of 2-, 3-, or 4-part fractures between groups. Average follow-up was 28 weeks. Medial calcar length was longer in the locking plate only group (P=.04); however, this group demonstrated a decreased head shaft angle (P=.01) and a trend toward increased rates of varus collapse (P=.06). No significant differences were found regarding other radiographic complications, irrespective of fracture complexity. A notable decrease in fluoroscopy time was seen with strut use (P=.04), but operative time and blood loss were similar between groups. ...
Source: Orthopedics - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Tags: Orthopedics Source Type: research