The Value Of Using External Fixator Temporarily In The ORIF Treatment Of The Proximal Humeral Fractures

Objective: To evaluate The value of using external fixator temporarily in the ORIF treatment of the proximal humeral fracturesMethods: From July 2012 to January 2014,22 cases with proximal humeral fractures underwent operation through the deltopectoral approach.8 men and 14 women with a mean of 52 years(33 to 76).13 cases on the left side,9 cases on the right side.According to the Neer classification,two-part fractures were diagnosed in 5 cases,three-part fractures in 13 cases,four-part fractures in 4 cases. All patients were using external fixator temporarily in the open reduction locking plate internal fixation.Neck-shaft angle detected by the follow-up X-ray film.Constant rating system were adopted to evaluate postoperative functions.angle between epiphysis and diaphysis of the humerusResults: 22 patients got final follow-up, mean follow-up time was 12 months(range from 8 to 21 months).The neck-shaft angle was 133.3°±6.9°.The Constant score was 82.9±8.1 points.The excellent and good rate was 77%(17/22), fair 18%(4/22), and poor 5%(1/22).In two-part fractures, 100% cases were excellent or good results, no humeral head necrosis;In three-part fractures,77% cases were excellent or good results,no poor, 15% were found with humeral head necrosis;In four-part fractures, 50% cases were excellent or good results 25% poor, and 25% were found with humeral head necrosis.Conclusions: The value of using external fixator temporarily in the ORIF treatment of the proximal humeral fractures is effective.A good clinical result can be obtained on proper post-operative rehabilitation.