Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for failed treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes and complications of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for failed treatment of proximal humerus fractures (FTPHF).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 20 patients (17 female, 3 male; mean age = 71.35 years; age range = 54-81 years) who underwent RTSA for FTPHF between 2012 and 2018 were included. The mean follow-up was 37.85 (range: 24-83) months. Outcome measures included shoulder range of motion, Constant score, ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) score, visual analog scale (VAS). Intra-or post-operative complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

The mean anterior flexion and external rotation improved from 37.25°±10.59° and 11.05°±4.79° preoperatively to 105.53° ± 9.33 and 22.37° ± 4.12° postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.01 for both). The mean Constant and ASES scores ameliorated from 21.95 ± 3.57 and 18.15 ± 4.69 preoperatively to 61.7 ± 7.6 and 71.18 ± 4.69 at the final follow-up, respectively (P < 0.01 for both). VAS significantly reduced from 6.83 ± 2.04 preoperatively to 1.79 ± 0.61 at the final follow-up (P < 0.01). None of the patients had major complications or required revision.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with the RTSA for the FTPHF seems to be an effective treatment method that can provide satisfactory radiological and functional outcomes with low complication rates.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Therapeutic Study.