Endosteal Strut Allograft Augmentation in the Osteosynthesis of Proximal Humerus Fractures
Abstract
Introduction: Proximal humeral fractures (PHF) are common, particularly in the elderly. Locking plate fixation continues to provide unpredictable outcomes. Medial hinge support plays a significant role in stability. We aim to evaluate the outcomes of plate fixation with endosteal strut allograft augmentation in PHFs. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of 12 patients with PHF who were treated with plate fixation and strut allograft augmentation. The strut allograft was introduced into the humeral shaft to add support to the medial hinge. We compared the final follow-up radiographs to those taken immediately after surgery. We defined a loss of reduction if the change in Humeral Head Height or the Neck-Shaft Angle measured over 3 mm or 5°, respectively. The clinical evaluation included range of motion, Constant-Murley (CM) score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and return to daily activities. Results: Twelve patients completed follow-up. The patients’ average age was 62.8. Ten patients healed without loss of reduction. Average CM and SSV scores were 82.1 and 80%, respectively, and average VAS was 1.9. Anterior elevation averaged 138.3°, external rotation 49.5°, and internal rotation at L3 level. The mean differences in HHH and NSA were 2.3 mm and 4.92°, respectively. We recorded no complications associated to the procedure. Conclusion: Locking plate fixation with endosteal strut allograft augmentation is a reliable technique for the treatment of PHF. It provides support to the humeral neck and maintains reduction in fractures with disruption of the medial hinge.Downloads
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