Allograft augmentation in proximal humerus fractures.

OBJECTIVE: Achieve stable fixation to initially start full range of motion (ROM) and to prevent secondary displacement in unstable fracture patterns and/or weak and osteoporotic bone.

INDICATIONS: (Secondarily) displaced proximal humerus fractures (PHF) with an unstable medial hinge and substantial bony deficiency, weak/osteoporotic bone, pre-existing psychiatric illnesses or patient incompliance to obey instructions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Open/contaminated fractures, systemic immunodeficiency, prior graft-versus-host reaction.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Deltopectoral approach. Identification of the rotator cuff. Disimpaction and reduction of the fracture, preparation of the situs. Graft preparation. Allografting. Fracture closure. Plate attachment. Definitive plate fixation. Radiological documentation. Postoperative shoulder fixation (sling).

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Cryotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication on demand. Shoulder sling for comfort. Full active physical therapy as tolerated without pain. Postoperative radiographs (anteroposterior, outlet, and axial [as tolerated] views) and clinical follow-up after 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS: Bony union and allograft incorporation in 9 of 10 noncompliant, high-risk patients (median age 63 years) after a mean follow-up of 28.5 months. The median Constant-Murley Score was 72.0 (range 45-86). Compared to the uninjured contralateral side, flexion was impaired by 13 %, abduction by 14 %, and external rotation by 15 %. Mean correction of the initial varus displacement was 38° (51° preoperatively to 13° postoperatively).