Purpose: To evaluate the results and complications of treatment using T-plate fixation for two- and three-part fractures of the proximal humerus.
Materials and Methods: Between January 1996 and July 2003, thirty-three patients with two-part and three-part fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by T-plate fixation. There were 21 two-part fractures and 12 three-part fractures including three shoulder dislocations. The reduction was qualified and complications were assessed with final radiographs. The functional outcome was evaluated by Neer’s rating system.
Results: Thirty-two cases (96.7%) were united, twenty-nine cases (87.9%) were reduced as good, and twenty-three cases (70%) had excellent or satisfactory results. There were four cases of loss of reduction, three cases of stiff joint, one case of nonunion, and one case of avascular necrosis of the humeral head, but no infection. No correlation was found between the final result and the type of fracture, age, gender, or quality of reduction.
Conclusion: T-plate fixation for proximal humeral fractures is a reliable method to obtain good results through satisfactory reduction, rigid fixation, and early movement. Additional tension band wiring can provide stable fixation for osteoporotic or comminuted fractures difficult to obtain stable fixation.
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