Cost of Treatment for Proximal Humerus Fractures: An Acute and 90-Day Cost Evaluation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the 90-day costs of three common surgical treatments for proximal humerus fractures and compare the costs associated with the initial day and subsequent 89 days of care. This was conducted through a retrospective review of a national database examining patients who suffered proximal humerus fractures. Patients were stratified by type of surgical procedure performed, hemiarthroplasty (HA), reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). RSA was the most costly procedure for the same-day and 90-day costs (p < 0.001). Mean initial day reimbursement costs were significantly different among treatment groups, with the highest costs seen with RSA ($16,151), followed by HA ($9,348), and ORIF ($6,745). Subsequent 89-day reimbursement costs were not significantly different for RSA, HA, and ORIF (p = 0.112). The 90-day costs for the surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures are driven by the initial day costs. RSA was associated with the highest cost, followed by HA and ORIF.