Shoulder hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture outcomes after more than two decades: A case series

Abstract

Background: Proximal humerus fractures can be fixed with shoulder hemiarthroplasty when joint preserving strategies are not feasible. Current literature has explored the outcomes of this intervention with short- and mid-term follow-up showing favorable results. However, since humerus fractures can occur in young individuals, it is important that we understand the long-term outlook of this treatment option. Case details: Five patients who had fractures of the proximal humerus underwent shoulder hemiarthroplasty here. At a average follow-up of 24.5 years, all patients were found to have acceptable patient-reported outcomes sustained range of motion, and no patient required a revision procedure. Patients achieved an average of 50°, T12, and 125° for external rotation, internal rotation, and forward elevation, respectively. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Simple Shoulder Test, Visual Analog Scale scores were 74/100, 8/12, and 2/10 on average, respectively. None of the five patients were found to have infection or wound complications. Radiographs showed that no patient had identifiable humeral lucency or glenohumeral joint inferior or anterior subluxation. Conclusion: Shoulder hemiarthroplasty is a viable surgical intervention for comminuted proximal humeral fractures. Over the long-term (i.e., >20 years), patients can expect sustained improvements in shoulder range of motion and acceptable function.

Keywords

• Shoulder hemiarthroplasty
• Fracture
• Shoulder
• Arthroplasty
• Long-term
• Patient-reported outcomes