Minimally displaced proximal humeral fractures: epidemiology and outcome in 507 cases

Abstract

We analyzed 507 consecutive minimally displaced proximal humeral fractures and showed that, if the AO classification is used, there is variation in the incidence of minimally displaced fractures in the different AO sub-groups. Patients with Type A minimally displaced fractures are significantly younger than those with Type B or C fractures. 376 patients were followed for 1 year and 88% achieved excellent or good results with nonoperative management. Age was the main determinant of outcome, according to the Neer score and the time taken to return to activities of daily living. Subjectively, older patients felt that the results of treatment were better than the objective measurement of gleno-humeral function would indicate. Many patients with fair or poor results had co-morbidities that prevented a good result. The length of the physiotherapy course affected the outcome at 1 year.