We conducted a prospective evaluation of patients with anterior dislocation of the shoulder associated with a fracture of the greater tuberosity.

Thirty-four anterior dislocations of the shoulder with greater tuberosity fractures were reviewed with a minimum follow-up of one year from the time of injury. Eight required open reduction. The final outcome with regard to pain, range of movements, and function was assessed in 34 patients. In open reduction, there were five good results, one fair, one poor and one patient died.

In the non-operative group, results were good in 11 patients, fair in eight, poor in one, not assessed in five and one patient died. Two patients have died in this series, one in the open reduction group. Associated injuries are: axillary nerve damage (three), brachial plexus injury (one), loose fragment under the acromion (one) and stiffness of the shoulder (three)

Anterior dislocations of the shoulder with fracture of the greater tuberosity do not always lead to good results. Close observation after reduction is important to check for later displacement of the fractures.