Conservative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures

Conservative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures - Immobilization for 1 Week Compared to Three Weeks: Prospective Randomized Study

Optimal treatment of proximal humeral fractures is yet to be defined. Many of them can be treated non-operatively. The question remains on how long do we have to immobilize non-operatively treated proximal humeral fractures?

There is still controversy on best treatment of proximal humeral fractures. While some authors propose surgical treatment other advocate for conservative treatment. Traditionally, fractures treated non-operatively undergo a 3-week period of immobilization followed by progressive rehabilitation program. Nevertheless, there is little evidence to support a 3-week immobilization period. The purpose of this study is to bring evidence to support either a 1-week immobilization or 3-week immobilization period in non-operatively treated proximal humeral fractures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients ≥ 60 yo and < 85 yo
• Acute fractures less than 1 week evolution
• Conservative treatment decided by orthopedic surgeon
• Contact between humeral head and humeral shaft.
• No gleno-humeral dislocation
• No previous surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairment