Functional Outcome of Proximal Humerus Fractures Treated with Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pinning

Abstract

Background: Fractures of proximal humerus are very common. Many options are available for its management including non-operative management. Reconstruction of the articular surfaces including restoration of the anatomy and a stable fixation with minimal soft tissue damage is the main principle of this procedure. Percutaneous pinning is the less invasive, less time consuming and reliable procedure and avoids complications such as avascular necrosis, infections and heavy weight bearing implants. Aims and Objectives: 1. To study the clinical profile of adult patients with proximal humeral fractures. 2. To study the functional outcome of closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of proximal humeral fractures. 3. To study the factors affecting functional outcome of proximal humeral fractures. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study among 32 patients on whom percutaneous pinning was done after closed reduction for the fractures of proximal humerus. This study was conducted from August 2014 to December 2016. Results: According to Neer's functional assessment score the functional outcome was excellent in 18 (56.3%) patients, satisfactory in 6 (18.8%) patients, unsatisfactory in 7 (21.9%) patients and failure in 1 (3.1%) patient. Conclusion: Percutaneous pinning is simple, less invasive, reliable and effective procedure. It reduces risk of heavy implant bearing, infection and avascular necrosis.