Philos plate fixation for displaced proximal humeral fractures.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the treatment outcome of Philos plate fixation for displaced proximal humeral fractures in 27 consecutive patients.

METHODS

6 men and 21 women aged 22 to 85 (mean, 56) years underwent Philos plate fixation for displaced proximal humeral fractures. 11 patients were aged 60 years or younger and 16 older than 60 years. All fractures were closed with no associated injuries and classified as 2-part (n=13), 3-part (n=12), and 4-part (n=2), according to the Neer classification. Patients were assessed radiologically and functionally using the Constant shoulder score.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up for 6 to 24 (mean, 13) months. All the fractures united except in a 76- year-old woman with a 3-part fracture in whom there was fracture collapse and screw penetration of the humeral head at 6 weeks. She subsequently developed non-union and avascular necrosis. The mean Constant shoulder score was 70 (range, 28-88). 11 patients had a score exceeding 75, 13 were scored between 50 and 75, and 3 were below 50.

CONCLUSION

Philos plate fixation provided stable fixation, minimal metal work problems and enabled early range-of-motion exercises to achieve acceptable functional results.