Stable osteosynthesis of cage in cage technique for surgical treatment of proximal humeral fractures

Abstract

Background: The treatment of a displaced proximal humeral fracture is still a matter of controversy. The purpose of this study was to report outcomes at a long-term follow-up after fixation augmentation using peek (polyether-ether-ketone) cage and locking compression plate (LCP). Methods: A total of 27 patients (average age 53.8 years, range 19–86 years) were treated with peek cage and LCP. All of them had a minimum radiographic and clinical follow-up of 1 years. Outcomes were assessed using the Constant-Murley score (CMS), disability of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score. Complications were also recorded during follow-up. Results: The average follow-up was 28 months (range 12–48 months). The mean functional outcomes were as follows: CMS, 73.3 (range 61–86); DASH, 45.9 (range 27–68). A total of 4 patients had complications: osteonecrosis developed in one patient, loss of reduction was observed in 1 patient and stiffness was occurred in two patients. Conclusion: The use of peek cage and LCP has been a valuable option in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures. The complication rate was acceptable. Suitable void filler in the proximal humerus for reconstructing the medial column integrity attains mechanical stability in reducing the incidence of the complications.