Outcome Analysis of Locking Plate Fixation in Proximal Humerus Fractures

Overall incidence of Proximal humerus fracture is about 5-6 % which contributes to 45% of total humerus fractures. Though undisplaced fractures can be managed conservatively , nearly 51% of these fractures are displaced and need surgical treatment for early return to daily activities. Various surgical options are available. Our study is a prospective study including 41 patients with proximal humerus fractures. Fractures were classified using Neer's classification as 2, 3 and 4 parts and locking plates ( Proximal Humerus Internal Locking System (PHILOS) & Locking Proximal Humerus Plate (LPHP)) were used for fracture fixation using Deltopectoral approach. Functional outcome was analysed using Constant score at 3, 6 &9 months.Functional outcome was analysed based on age, fracture pattern and implant type & the results compared with similar other studies. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2010 & IBM SPSS software by statistical consultant and student t test. We found young patients and less comminuted fractures showed better results. Also PHILOS plate showed a slight advantage over LPHP which may be due to the implant design.