Infected Hematoma in the Setting of Nonoperatively Treated Proximal Humerus Fracture

Abstract

Case: Two patients presented with infections of their recent proximal humerus fracture sites. These immunocompromised patients were being treated nonoperatively for their proximal humerus fractures; however, both were taken to the operating room for surgical debridement. Conclusions: These 2 cases demonstrate the need for further investigation into infection of closed fracture sites. Attention should be paid to immunocompromised patients who present with proximal humerus fractures, especially displaced 2-part surgical neck fractures with anterior deltoid injury and subsequent hematoma formation. These patients may develop an infection with potential rapid progression to life-threatening septic shock.

Infected haematoma in non-immuno-compromised patients following conservatively managed glenohumeral fractures - case reports

“…To our knowledge, we are first to report on two cases of infected haematoma following glenohumeral fractures in patients who are not immuno-compromised. Blood et al 4 recently reported two cases of infected haematoma in non-surgically managed proximal humerus fractures. However, both of their patients had obvious risks factors for infection and were immuno-compromised with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (on disease modifying agents) or alcohol dependence.…”

“…Only 2 cases have been reported in the literature of infected haematoma following non-surgically managed proximal humeral fractures in immuno-compromised patients. 4 To our knowledge, we hereby are first to report two cases of infected haematoma in patients with glenohumeral fractures in non-immuno-compromised patients initially treated conservatively but subsequently requiring surgery for infection.…”