Open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intra-articular fractures of the glenoid fossa.

Ten displaced intra-articular fractures of the glenoid fossa were treated with open reduction and internal fixation between 1980 and 1987. Nine patients were available for evaluation at an average of four years (range, two to ten years) after the operation. Eight patients had mild or no symptoms and little or no restriction of the motion of the shoulder. There were no infections or malunions. The only complication was heterotopic ossification in one patient. Radiographic evaluation showed no evidence of traumatic osteoarthrosis in any patient. Open reduction and internal fixation is a useful and safe technique for the treatment of selected, displaced fractures of the glenoid fossa, and it can restore excellent function of the shoulder.