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OBJECTIVES: To compare the outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, hemiarthroplasty (HA), and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for proximal humerus fractures. DATA SOURCES: The search was performed on September 9, 2012 using an explicit search algorithm in the following databases: Medline, SportDiscus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Inclusion criteria were English language studies reporting clinical outcomes after surgical treatment of 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures with a minimum of 1-year follow-up. STUDY SELECTION: English language studies reporting clinical outcomes after surgical treatment of 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures with a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Levels 1-4 studies were eligible for inclusion. DATA EXTRACTION: Study methodological quality and bias was evaluated using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score. DATA SYNTHESIS: Two-proportion Z test and multivariate linear regression analyses were used for group comparisons. CONCLUSIONS: Significantly better clinical outcomes were observed for ORIF over HA and RSA (American Shoulder and Elbow Score, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Constant) (P < 0.05). However, ORIF had a significantly higher reoperation rate versus HA and RSA (P < 0.001 for both). Comparing HA with RSA, there was no difference in any outcome measure. The rate of tuberosity nonunion was 15.4% in the HA group. There were more complications following closed reduction and percutaneous pinning versus ORIF, HA, and RSA (P < 0.05). ORIF for proximal humerus fractures demonstrates better clinical outcome scores but with a significantly higher reoperation rate. HA and RSA are effective as well, but tuberosity nonunion remains a concern with HA.
Gupta et al. (Wed,) studied this question.