Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for failed treatment of proximal humerus fractures

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes and complications of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for failed treatment of proximal humerus fractures (FTPHF).

Methods: In this retrospective study, 20 patients (17 female, 3 male; mean age = 71.35 years; age range = 54-81 years) who underwent RTSA for FTPHF between 2012 and 2018 were included. The mean follow-up was 37.85 (range: 24-83) months. Outcome measures included shoulder range of motion, Constant score, ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) score, visual analog scale (VAS). Intra-or post-operative complications were also recorded.

Results: The mean anterior flexion and external rotation improved from 37.25°±10.59° and 11.05°±4.79° preoperatively to 105.53° ± 9.33 and 22.37° ± 4.12° postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.01 for both). The mean Constant and ASES scores ameliorated from 21.95 ± 3.57 and 18.15 ± 4.69 preoperatively to 61.7 ± 7.6 and 71.18 ± 4.69 at the final follow-up, respectively (P < 0.01 for both). VAS significantly reduced from 6.83 ± 2.04 preoperatively to 1.79 ± 0.61 at the final follow-up (P < 0.01). None of the patients had major complications or required revision.

Conclusion: Treatment with the RTSA for the FTPHF seems to be an effective treatment method that can provide satisfactory radiological and functional outcomes with low complication rates.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, Therapeutic Study

Cite this article as: Karademir G, Tunalı O, Erşen A, Akpınar S, Atalar AC. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for failed treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc 2021; 55(6): 480–485.