project opened under new PI

Will patients who suffer complex humerus fractures have better functional outcomes and less implant failure with shoulder replacement (reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, RTSA) compared to shoulder repair (open reduction and internal fixation, ORIF)?

The purpose of this study is to compare validated clinical and functional outcomes between patients who acutely present with 3 and 4-part proximal humerus fractures treated with either ORIF or RTSA.

Inclusion

• Neer 3 and 4-part proximal humerus fractures.
• Age greater than and equal to 70 years old.
• Functional deltoid musculature (axillary nerve intact).

Exclusion

• Less than 70 years old.
• Dementia or inability to provide adequate follow up.
• Associated injuries: injuries of ipsilateral limb, complete brachial plexopathy, vascular injury and polytrauma.