Proximal Humerus Fracture Surgery
Overview
Proximal humerus fractures involve the upper part of the arm bone near the shoulder. These injuries are common after falls and can range from stable fractures that heal without surgery to complex displaced fractures involving multiple fragments and the joint surface.
The goal of treatment is to restore shoulder comfort and function while allowing the fracture to heal in the best achievable position. Surgical options include fixation with plates and screws, fixation supported by strut allograft in complex cases, or reverse total shoulder replacement in selected elderly patients with severe fracture patterns.
Who may benefit from surgery?
Surgery may be recommended when the fracture is displaced, unstable, involves the joint surface, is unlikely to heal in a functional position, or is associated with poor shoulder mechanics. Age, bone quality, activity level, fracture pattern and rotator cuff status all influence the decision.
What does the procedure involve?
Proximal humerus fixation, or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) involves realigning the fracture and securing it with a plate and screws. In complex fractures or poor bone quality, a strut allograft may be used to support the humeral head and improve fixation stability.
In older patients with complex fractures, severe comminution or poor bone quality, reverse total shoulder replacement may provide a more reliable pathway to pain relief and function than fixation.
Recovery after proximal humerus fracture surgery
Recovery depends on fracture stability and the operation performed. Fixation requires bone healing, while replacement recovery depends on soft tissue healing and implant function. Stiffness is common after shoulder fractures, so rehabilitation is carefully balanced between protection and movement.
Rehabilitation protocol
You will receive a protocol matched to proximal humerus ORIF or reverse shoulder replacement for fracture.
FAQs
Do all proximal humerus fractures need surgery?
No. Many can be treated without surgery. Surgery is considered when alignment, stability or joint involvement makes non-operative care less reliable.
What is a strut allograft?
It is donor bone used internally to support fixation in selected complex fractures.
When is reverse shoulder replacement used for fracture?
It may be used in elderly patients with complex fractures, poor bone quality or fracture patterns unlikely to do well with fixation.
Will my shoulder become stiff?
Stiffness is common after these injuries. Rehabilitation aims to protect healing while restoring movement as safely as possible.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery often takes months, with continued improvement over time.
Book or Refer Today
For a displaced or complex proximal humerus fracture, book an urgent assessment to review imaging and treatment options.
Reconstructive Orthopaedics Melbourne (ROM)
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