Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Improved imaging, updated knowledge regarding humeral head perfusion and adapted fixation techniques with implants having better purchase also in osteopenic bone, have influenced the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in recent years. Demographic evolution and a more active population even among the older age groups will increase the incidence of this fracture, which is already the third most frequent fracture after hip and distal radius fractures in elderly patients. Long-term morbidity related to the treatment of these fractures like avascular humeral head necrosis, non-union, malunion, shoulder stiffness, persistent pain and functional disability are the challenging factors to be overcome. ⋯ Even though plating of proximal humeral fractures with angular stable implants has shown promising first clinical results, there still remain elevated complication rates especially in the elderly osteoporotic patient population. Recent clinical reports using angular stable plates provided only data with a low level of evidence to help in decision-making. The comparison with historical series using non-angular stable plates in respect to the long-term morbidity should help to better evaluate the value of locked plates inserted with less-extensive soft-tissue exposure.