Three Part Proximal Humerus Fracture Fixation with K-wires Vs Minimally Invasive Locking Plate

Background Treatment of proximal humerus fractures is controversial and various operative modalities have been tried. The aim of the present study was to evaluate functional outcome after open reduction and internal fixation of three part proximal humerus fractures by proximal humerus locking plate compared with k wire fixation. Methods Fractures were classified according to Neer's classification. We reviewed a total of 40 patients with proximal humerus 3 part fractures in 20 patients (Group 1), who were treated with minimally invasive deltoid splitting Proximal Humeral Locking plate and 20 patients (Group 2) who were treated with percutaneous K-wire fixation. Functional outcome was assessed using Constant-Murley Score. Results The average follow up period was around 24 months. Mean Constant-Murley score was 88.4points (range 61- 100) in Group 1 and - 72.4 points (range56-100) in Group 2 at final follow up. Complications included screw perforation of head, non union, mal union, loss of fixation, and infection. Conclusion Proximal humerus locking plate gives stable fixation with minimal implant problems and enabled early range-of motion exercises to achieve acceptable functional results for 3-part fractures compared with K-wire fixation.