Periprosthetic fractures of the humerus

Abstract

Classifications have been previously reported and biomechanical studies have been performed, but the management of humeral fractures between implants remains problematic. At the time of arthroplasty, planning of the optimum length of the prostheses is required, especially for patients being considered for a second arthroplasty in the ipsilateral elbow or shoulder. Current treatment may be conservative if reduction can be obtained and the prostheses are stable, or it may be surgical using internal fixation with plates, strut grafts, double plates, or a plate and strut graft construct if the fracture extends around the components of the prosthesis and autogenous bone grafting.