Abstract
Introduction
The aim of this study is to present the results of the surgical treatment of the humeral neck fracture applying two different plates based on the presence or not of bone compression.
Material and Methods
Thirty two patients with displced proximal humerus fracture were operated on between January 2002 and August 2007. After radiographic analysis, the fractures were classified into two types: non-compressive (without loss of bone tissue – not impacted fracture) and compressive (with permanent bone loss due to compression between the fragments – impacted valgus fracture) fractures. Depending on the presence or not of bone compression, two different plates were applied for osteosynthesis: a locking angled blade plate, for “non-compressive fractures” and a locking angled “spacer” plate, for “compressive fractures”.
Results
Twenty (59%) fractures were considered “non-compressive” and operated on applying the locking angled blade plate, and 12 (41%) were classified as “compressive fractures” and were operated on applying a locking angled “spacer” plate.
Conclusion
the displaced humeral neck fractures may or may not undergo compression and permanent deformity among the fragments. The displaced fractures should be treated in two different manners, depending on whether or not there is bone compression between the fragments.
