Abstract

This is a prospective case series, in which the outcome of shoulder hemiarthroplasty in recent three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus was evaluated in patients over 65 years of age. From February 1993 to October 2002, 51 patients with 3- or 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus were entered into the study. The criteria for inclusion were age over 65 years and 3- or 4- part displaced fracture. The mean age of the patients was 73 years (range : 65 to 84). The mean follow-up was 5.5 years (range : 2 to 12). According to the Constant-Murley scale, the results were satisfactory or very satisfactory for 74% of the patients. Thirty nine patients (78%) experienced mild or no pain, 50% achieved active anterior elevation greater than 120°, while 40% had active lateral elevation of more than 120°. None of the patients experienced complete recovery of strength and full range of motion. Thirty four patients were able to resume all their daily activities. There were complications in 26% of the patients. Assessment following the Constant-Murley scale demonstrated that two thirds of the patients were pain free and regained a wide range of shoulder movement, while one third resumed their pre-fracture activities to a great extent. The majority of the patients did not recover normal strength.