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Gãy xương cánh tay trên

Proximal humerus fractures — Neer classification, sling management, and surgical options.

Updated Aug 2026
Một minh họa vẽ tay của một xương cánh tay bị gãy ngay dưới vai.
X-quang cho thấy một gãy xương ở phần trên của xương cánh tay, ngay dưới khớp vai. Kieran Hirpara 4.0

Trang này được dịch bằng máy và chưa được bác sĩ kiểm tra. Bản tiếng Anh là bản chính thức.

Những gì bạn đang cảm thấy

Bạn có thể sẽ cảm thấy đau nhói ở phần trên của cánh tay, gần khớp vai. Cơn đau này thường lan xuống cánh tay hoặc lên cổ. Chấn thương là một sự gãy ở phần trên của xương cánh tay, có thể xảy ra nếu bạn bị ngã hoặc nếu xương của bạn bị suy yếu do tình trạng mỏng đi liên quan đến tuổi tác.

Cơn đau thường trở nên nghiêm trọng hơn khi bạn cố gắng di chuyển cánh tay. Các hoạt động đơn giản như nâng một chiếc cốc, với tay lên kệ hoặc nhét áo vào quần có thể trở nên khó khăn hoặc không thể thực hiện được. Bạn có thể thấy khó đưa tay ra sau lưng để cài áo ngực hoặc cài cúc áo. Ngay cả những cử động nhẹ cũng có thể kích hoạt cơn đau dữ dội.

Nhiều người nhận thấy cơn đau mạnh nhất vào ban đêm. Nằm nghiêng về phía bên bị thương thường quá đau, vì vậy bạn có thể gặp khó khăn trong việc tìm một tư thế ngủ thoải mái. Thức dậy với vai cứng và đau nhức là điều phổ biến. Nghỉ ngơi cánh tay trong một chiếc nạng treo (sling) có thể giúp giảm đau bằng cách giữ cho xương gãy bất động. Tuy nhiên, giữ cánh tay bất động trong thời gian dài cũng có thể khiến khớp cảm thấy cứng và căng.

Mặc dù cơn đau rất dữ dội, điều quan trọng là phải biết rằng hầu hết các trường hợp gãy xương này đều lành tốt mà không cần phẫu thuật. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ hướng dẫn bạn cách bảo vệ cánh tay trong quá trình lành bệnh. Trong phần lớn các trường hợp, điều trị không phẫu thuật dẫn đến tỷ lệ lành xương và liền xương thành công trên 90%. Điều này có nghĩa là xương sẽ nối lại với nhau đúng cách đối với hầu hết bệnh nhân.

Nếu bạn là người lớn tuổi, kế hoạch điều trị của bạn sẽ xem xét sức khỏe tổng thể và độ chắc khỏe của xương. Đối với người lớn dưới 65 tuổi, phẫu thuật không phải lúc nào cũng tốt hơn việc nghỉ ngơi và hỗ trợ. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ xem xét hình ảnh học để xác định chính xác vị trí gãy và quyết định hướng đi tốt nhất.

Đối với một số bệnh nhân lớn tuổi có các vết gãy phức tạp hơn, thay khớp có thể được thảo luận. Lựa chọn này mang lại kết quả bền vững để điều trị các vết gãy cấp tính ở người lớn tuổi. Đây là một lựa chọn an toàn và hợp lý khi tổn thương xương nghiêm trọng.

Hầu hết trẻ em bị loại gãy xương này đều lành nhanh chóng với ít biến chứng. Nếu bạn đang chăm sóc một đứa trẻ, triển vọng chung thường rất tích cực.

Hãy lưu ý rằng chấn thương này có thể ảnh hưởng đáng kể đến cuộc sống hàng ngày của bạn. Nó có thể gây tàn tật tạm thời và giảm cảm giác hạnh phúc của bạn. Tuy nhiên, với sự chăm sóc và kiên nhẫn đúng mức, hầu hết mọi người đều lấy lại khả năng sử dụng cánh tay của họ. Hãy làm theo lời khuyên của bác sĩ phẫu thuật về vận động và nghỉ ngơi để hỗ trợ quá trình hồi phục của bạn.

Những gì thực sự đang xảy ra

Đầu trên của xương cánh tay trên là một thể tích phức tạp điều khiển chuyển động của khớp vai. Khi bạn bị ngã, vùng này có thể nứt vỡ thành nhiều mảnh. Các phần quan trọng nhất là các củ xương (tuberosities), là những gồ xương nơi các gân vòng xoay (rotator cuff) bám vào. Hãy tưởng tượng các gân này như những sợi dây thừng chắc chắn giúp nâng và xoay cánh tay của bạn. Nếu các gồ xương này bị lệch khỏi vị trí, các sợi dây sẽ mất điểm neo. Điều này làm thay đổi cách lực truyền qua khớp vai của bạn. Ngay cả những dịch chuyển nhỏ về vị trí cũng có thể làm thay đổi đáng kể cách khớp vận động và chịu lực.

Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ đánh giá tính ổn định của các kết nối này. Bao khớp là lớp bao quanh khớp vai, và sụn là lớp phủ trơn láng trên các đầu xương. Khi các mảnh xương bị dịch chuyển, chúng có thể cọ xát vào nhau hoặc gây áp lực không đều lên sụn. Điều này gây đau và hạn chế tầm vận động của bạn. Trong một số trường hợp, nguồn cung cấp máu đến đầu xương bị suy giảm. Điều này có thể dẫn đến cứng khớp hoặc yếu cơ nếu các mảnh xương không liền lại trong sự căn chỉnh đúng cách.

Chúng tôi hiểu rằng các lựa chọn điều trị phụ thuộc vào độ tuổi và kiểu gãy xương cụ thể của bạn. Đối với nhiều trường hợp gãy xương một mảnh, nơi xương bị nứt nhưng vẫn còn thẳng hàng, điều trị không phẫu thuật mang lại hiệu quả tốt. Hầu hết người lớn tuổi mắc các gãy xương ổn định này vẫn được điều trị nội khoa với kết quả tích cực. Quản lý không phẫu thuật cho thấy kết quả thành công và tỷ lệ liền xương trên 90%. Điều này có nghĩa là xương liền lại đúng cách mà không cần phẫu thuật trong phần lớn các trường hợp.

Tuy nhiên, nếu các mảnh xương bị lệch hoặc không ổn định, bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn có thể khuyến nghị phẫu thuật. Mục tiêu là khôi phục lại giải phẫu để các gân của bạn có thể co kéo hiệu quả trở lại. Chúng tôi sử dụng các tấm vít khóa hoặc đinh nội tủy để cố định các mảnh xương lại với nhau trong quá trình liền xương. Điều này cung cấp sự cố định ổn định cho đoạn gần xương cánh tay trên. Trong các trường hợp nghiêm trọng nơi xương bị tổn thương quá nặng để sửa chữa, chúng tôi có thể xem xét thay khớp. Lựa chọn này cung cấp bằng chứng thuyết phục về hiệu quả và độ bền chức năng trong việc điều trị các gãy xương đoạn gần xương cánh tay trên cấp tính ở người lớn tuổi.

Những gì chúng tôi có thể làm về vấn đề này

Cách chúng tôi tiếp cận việc chăm sóc bạn phản ánh cách Dr Kieran Hirpara, một bác sĩ phẫu thuật chi trên tại Bệnh viện Tư nhân Mater Rockhampton, quản lý các chấn thương này tại phòng khám của chúng tôi. Phần lớn các gãy xương cánh tay trên gần đầu xương một mảnh lành tốt mà không cần phẫu thuật. Trong đa số các trường hợp, điều trị không phẫu thuật dẫn đến kết quả tích cực. Tỷ lệ liền xương với quản lý không phẫu thuật lớn hơn 90%. Hành trình của bạn thường bắt đầu với tự chăm sóc và vật lý trị liệu. Chúng tôi có thể sử dụng nạng để hỗ trợ cánh tay của bạn. Thời gian bất động ngắn hoặc dài đều cho kết quả tương tự, vì vậy chúng tôi điều chỉnh thời gian dựa trên sự thoải mái của bạn và kiểu gãy xương. Vật lý trị liệu nhằm khôi phục chuyển động và sức mạnh khi xương lành. Phần lớn người lớn tuổi bị các gãy xương này tiếp tục nhận loại chăm sóc này với kết quả chức năng tốt.

Quản lý y khoa tập trung vào việc giữ cho bạn thoải mái trong khi xương liền. Chúng tôi sử dụng thuốc giảm đau và thuốc chống viêm để kiểm soát khó chịu. Nếu sưng hoặc cứng khớp kéo dài, chúng tôi có thể thảo luận về các mũi tiêm. Tiêm cortisone giảm viêm và đau trong một khoảng thời gian giới hạn. Tiêm axit hyaluronic bôi trơn khớp để cải thiện chuyển động. Tiêm huyết tương giàu tiểu cầu (PRP) sử dụng các thành phần máu của chính bạn để hỗ trợ quá trình lành bệnh. Các lựa chọn này giúp quản lý các triệu chứng khi điều trị bảo tồn đơn thuần không đủ. Đối với các vấn đề thoái hóa hoặc kéo dài, chúng tôi thường thử các bước không phẫu thuật này trước. Chúng tôi chỉ xem xét phẫu thuật khi chúng không mang lại đủ sự cải thiện.

Phẫu thuật được xem xét khi điều trị bảo tồn đã đạt đến giới hạn hoặc khi gãy xương phức tạp. Đối với các gãy xương hai mảnh bị lệch ở bệnh nhân từ 60 tuổi trở lên, không có sự khác biệt đáng kể về kết quả lâm sàng sau 2 năm giữa phẫu thuật và điều trị không phẫu thuật. Tuy nhiên, đối với các gãy xương ba hoặc bốn mảnh ở bệnh nhân lớn tuổi, phẫu thuật có thể mang lại kết quả chức năng dài hạn tốt hơn. Thay khớp vai toàn phần ngược (thay khớp) là một lựa chọn hợp lý và an toàn cho người lớn tuổi bị gãy xương nặng. Nó mang lại kết quả chức năng hiệu quả và bền vững. Điều trị xâm lấn tối thiểu đối với các gãy xương được chọn lọc cũng dẫn đến liền xương dự đoán được với tỷ lệ biến chứng thấp. Tỷ lệ biến chứng sau điều trị phẫu thuật cao, vì vậy chúng tôi chỉ dành phẫu thuật cho các tình huống cụ thể. Đối với các vấn đề cấu trúc hoặc cấp tính, phẫu thuật có thể được khuyến nghị ngay lập tức. Chúng tôi trình bày các lựa chọn này như một quyết định chung, dựa trên tuổi tác, chất lượng xương và kiểu gãy xương của bạn.

Những điều cần biết

Tiên lượng của bạn phụ thuộc phần lớn vào độ tuổi và mức độ nghiêm trọng của vết gãy. Đối với hầu hết người cao tuổi, các vết gãy này lành tốt mà không cần phẫu thuật. Quản lý không phẫu thuật dẫn đến kết quả lành xương thành công ở hơn 90% các trường hợp. Bạn có thể sẽ đeo nạng bất động (sling) trong một khoảng thời gian ngắn, chẳng hạn như một tuần, hoặc trong một khoảng thời gian dài hơn, chẳng hạn như ba tuần. Cả hai lựa chọn đều mang lại kết quả tương tự. Hầu hết bệnh nhân đều phục hồi chức năng tốt với phương pháp này.

Nếu bạn dưới 65 tuổi, bác sĩ phẫu thuật có thể thảo luận về việc phẫu thuật. Tuy nhiên, bằng chứng không cho thấy lợi ích rõ ràng của phẫu thuật so với điều trị không phẫu thuật ở người trưởng thành dưới độ tuổi này. Đối với các vết gãy phức tạp ở bệnh nhân lớn tuổi, phẫu thuật thường mang lại chức năng dài hạn tốt hơn so với việc để vết gãy tự lành. Các thủ thuật như thay khớp vai toàn phần ngược hoặc cố định nội khoa bằng tấm và đinh giúp ổn định xương. Những phương pháp này nhằm mục đích khôi phục khả năng vận động và giảm đau theo thời gian.

Quá trình hồi phục diễn ra từ từ. Bạn có thể nhận thấy vai của mình bị cứng hoặc yếu trong vài tháng. Với phẫu thuật, bạn có thể gặp một số biến chứng, vì tỷ lệ biến chứng và phẫu thuật lại cao hơn đối với các vết gãy phức tạp. Mặc dù vậy, nhiều bệnh nhân đạt được kết quả dài hạn tốt. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ hướng dẫn quá trình phục hồi chức năng để đảm bảo bạn lấy lại sức mạnh một cách an toàn.

Điều quan trọng là phải hiểu rõ bức tranh sức khỏe tổng thể. Các vết gãy do giòn xương ở người cao tuổi đi kèm với nguy cơ cao xảy ra các biến cố sức khỏe nghiêm trọng. Nguy cơ tử vong trong vòng một năm sau chấn thương là 9,8%. Nguy cơ này tăng lên 28,2% sau năm năm. Sự gia tăng này cao hơn gấp đôi so với dân số chung. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ theo dõi sát sức khỏe tổng thể của bạn trong quá trình hồi phục để quản lý các nguy cơ này.

Hầu hết trẻ em hồi phục hoàn toàn với ít biến chứng. Đối với người trưởng thành, sự kiên nhẫn là chìa khóa. Mặc dù một số khó chịu có thể tồn tại, phần lớn bệnh nhân quay trở lại các hoạt động hàng ngày. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ điều chỉnh kế hoạch chăm sóc của bạn dựa trên kiểu gãy xương cụ thể và tình trạng sức khỏe của bạn. Các cuộc tái khám định kỳ đảm bảo xương của bạn đang lành đúng cách và giúp giải quyết sớm bất kỳ mối quan tâm nào.

Khi nào cần gặp bác sĩ

Hãy gặp bác sĩ đa khoa nếu bạn có cơn đau dai dẳng không cải thiện khi nghỉ ngơi. Hãy yêu cầu đánh giá bởi bác sĩ chuyên khoa nếu bạn nhận thấy tình trạng yếu hoặc mất ổn định ở vai. Hãy tìm kiếm sự chăm sóc y tế khẩn cấp nếu vai của bạn bị khóa cứng hoặc đột ngột mất sức. Hãy liên hệ với bác sĩ nếu các triệu chứng ảnh hưởng đến giấc ngủ hoặc công việc của bạn. Tình trạng đau tăng lên đột ngột cũng là lý do để bạn tìm kiếm sự giúp đỡ. Hầu hết các trường hợp gãy xương một mảnh đều lành tốt mà không cần phẫu thuật. Tuy nhiên, việc đánh giá chính xác là yếu tố then chốt. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật của bạn sẽ sử dụng các phương tiện chẩn đoán hình ảnh để kiểm tra các biến chứng. Việc đánh giá sớm giúp ngăn ngừa tàn tật lâu dài. Đừng bỏ qua các dấu hiệu cho thấy quá trình hồi phục của bạn không tiến triển như mong đợi.


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Overview

  • Non-operative management is associated with good outcomes in the majority of proximal humerus fractures in adults [1].
  • Most older adults who sustain proximal humerus fractures continue to receive nonoperative treatment [4].
  • Most one-part proximal humerus fractures are amenable to non-operative treatment with positive outcomes reported in the vast majority of cases [8].
  • The available literature does not demonstrate a clear clinical benefit of operative treatment over nonoperative management of proximal humeral fractures in adult patients younger than 65 years [15].
  • Both age and gender have an association with the definitive treatment patients received for proximal humerus fractures over the last decade [3].
  • Most pediatric patients with proximal humerus fractures have favorable results, and complications are infrequent [12].
  • Patients with pathologic humerus fractures had significantly higher complication rates compared with native humerus fractures after surgical treatment [29].
  • Guidelines and treatment algorithms for native humerus fractures may not be generalizable for those of pathologic origin [29].
  • The selection of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) over other surgical options is a current, reasonable, and safe option to treat proximal humerus fractures, particularly in those with higher Neer grades and/or in older patients [25].
  • Patients with a proximal humerus fracture undergoing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty have significantly worse perioperative outcomes, including higher rates of complications, longer hospital stays, and higher costs, compared to patients with other indications [67].
  • Prospective clinical trials with longer-term follow-up are required for definitive assessment of the ideal fixation construct for surgical management of two-part proximal humerus fractures [17].
  • Besides age, most randomized controlled trials on surgical management of proximal humerus fractures do not include patient-specific variables within their inclusion and exclusion criteria [16].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

  • Inferior tuberosity displacement after prosthetic reconstruction of shoulder fractures is associated with diminished functional results [33].
  • Inferior tuberosity positioning after hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures is associated with diminished function [40].
  • Range of motion and strength thresholds can identify subjects with normal shoulder function [36].
  • Shoulder flexion, extension, and abduction are only moderately correlated with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) [57].
  • Holistic assessment of outcomes requires both subjective and objective outcomes [57].
  • The changed position of the humeral head on the coronal plane does not affect final functional results in conservatively treated displaced proximal humerus fractures in the elderly [54].
  • Bone quality significantly impacts implant anchorage in osteosynthesis for proximal humerus fractures [58].
  • Positioning the arm in abduction and internal rotation may help mitigate deforming muscular forces in proximal humerus fractures [46].
  • Rotator cuff tears are a detrimental factor and a major cause of painful shoulders in proximal humeral fractures with minimal displacement treated conservatively [63].
  • The double plate strategy can increase the stability of the medial column of the proximal humerus and enhance the overall biomechanical property of the repaired proximal humerus [64].
  • Reverse shoulder arthroplasty could be considered primary treatment for proximal humerus fractures, especially when optimal range of motion is of great importance to the patient [72].
  • Glenoid loosening and severe scapular notching in reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures are related to poor positioning and/or incorrect orientation of the glenosphere [74].

Classification

  • Proximal humerus fractures are osteoporotic injuries with increasing incidence due to aging populations [5].
  • Accurate clinical evaluation, imaging, and classification are paramount for informed treatment decisions [5].
  • Evaluation of classification systems for fractures of the proximal humerus with plain radiographs has yielded low interobserver reliability [32].
  • The Mayo-FJD classification system for proximal humerus fractures allows high intraobserver and interobserver agreement using both radiographs and computed tomography [45].
  • The use of artificial intelligence can accurately detect and classify proximal humerus fractures on plain shoulder AP radiographs [28].
  • Morphologic classification of proximal humerus fractures as the sole basis for treatment algorithms and surgical success should be scrutinized [50].
  • Current diagnosis coding practices (ICD-10) do not adequately capture the fracture complexity needed to conduct subgroup analysis for proximal humerus fractures [75].
  • There is clear evidence of specific characteristics which differentiate proximal third humeral shaft fractures from those of midshaft and distal third [69].

Clinical Presentation

  • Proximal humerus fractures are now typically osteoporotic fractures in women over 70, with prevalence increasing due to an aging population in poor general condition [19].
  • There is a substantial mortality in patients with a proximal humerus fracture [6].
  • Mortality at 1 year for fragility proximal humerus fractures is universally high regardless of risk factors [14].
  • Surviving patients frequently have persistent symptoms that can be predicted as early as after 1 year [6].
  • Complications associated with proximal humerus fractures are varied and can be categorized as occurring at the time of initial injury, during operative management, or as delayed sequelae [11].
  • Treatment algorithms and outcomes following proximal humerus fractures in patients less than or equal to 60 years of age are distinctly different from that of a more elderly population [13].
  • Surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures remains far from straightforward, with unpredictable outcomes where factors associated with poor results include being a woman, four-part fracture dislocation, and absence of metaphyseal head extension [37].
  • Computed tomography improves the diagnostic accuracy but not the interobserver reliability of the Boileau classification of proximal humerus fracture sequelae [18].
  • Computed tomography scan was more specific than radiographs in the assessment of proximal humerus fracture sequelae [18].

Investigations

  • Accurate clinical evaluation, imaging, and classification are paramount for informed treatment decisions in proximal humerus fractures [5].
  • Computed tomography improves the diagnostic accuracy of the Boileau classification of proximal humerus fracture sequelae [18].
  • Computed tomography does not improve the interobserver reliability of the Boileau classification of proximal humerus fracture sequelae [18].
  • Computed tomography scan is more specific than radiographs in the assessment of proximal humerus fracture sequelae [18].
  • Artificial intelligence can accurately detect and classify proximal humerus fractures on plain shoulder AP radiographs [28].
  • Convolutional neural networks proficiently rule out proximal humerus fractures on plain radiographs [76].
  • The routine use of 3D-printed models may not be beneficial for classifying proximal humeral fracture patterns beyond the information gained from currently available imaging modalities [79].
  • The routine use of 3D-printed models should be avoided as the sole determinant for recommending surgical intervention in proximal humeral fractures [79].
  • In children with shoulder dislocation combined with proximal humerus fracture, bilateral anteroposterior shoulders x-ray is suggested routinely to confirm shoulder location in addition to palpation and anteroposterior and lateral humeral x-ray [83].

Treatment

Non-Operative Management

  • In the vast majority of cases, proximal humerus fractures may be treated nonoperatively [2].
  • Over the past decade, most older adults who sustain proximal humerus fractures continue to receive nonoperative treatment [4].
  • Non-operative treatment of proximal humerus fractures seldom results in displacement that warrants operative intervention [24].
  • There is little utility to the routine use of postoperative radiographs in follow-up of pediatric proximal humerus fractures [24].
  • Proximal humerus fractures in children have tremendous potential for remodeling, making non-operative management the treatment of choice for most fractures [56].
  • Most proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients can be treated nonoperatively with good functional outcomes [27].
  • A majority of patients with proximal humeral fractures underwent non-operative treatment [41].
  • Nonsurgical management of proximal humerus fractures decreased during the study period [35].
  • Nonsurgical treatment should have a more prominent role in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures [48].
  • Nonsurgical treatment provides better midterm outcomes compared to locking plate fixation for proximal humeral fractures [48].
  • There is no significant difference in clinical outcomes at 2 years between surgery and non-operative treatment in patients 60 years of age or older with displaced 2-part fractures of the proximal humerus [39].
  • Evidence-based recommendations to guide treatment of proximal humerus fractures are lacking, and no good evidence exists whether surgery is clearly superior to nonoperative treatment [65].

Operative Management

  • Consensus when managing proximal humerus fractures is limited to specific scenarios, whereas lack of consensus still exists in others [7].
  • Most RCTs on surgical management of proximal humerus fractures do not include patient-specific variables within their inclusion and exclusion criteria [16].
  • Hemiarthroplasty and reverse prosthesis are indicated for complex proximal humerus fractures in patients no younger than 70 years of age [21].
  • Reverse total shoulder replacement is a promising treatment for geriatrics with three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures aiming for a better long-term functional outcome [22].
  • The selection of RTSA over other surgical options is a current, reasonable, and safe option to treat proximal humerus fractures, particularly in those with higher Neer grades and/or in older patients [25].
  • Percutaneous treatment of selected proximal humeral fractures results in predictable union and good clinical results with a low rate of complications [26].
  • No single fixation method is a panacea for proximal humeral fractures; choice of implant and method should be selected according to individual patient and fracture pattern characteristics based on clearly defined indications and contraindications [38].
  • Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with PHILOS plate is a safe and effective option for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures, with good functional recovery and fewer complications, which are typically technique dependent [49].
  • There are no significant differences in clinical outcomes or complication rates between standard components and fracture-specific components in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for proximal humerus fractures [51].

Complications

  • Proximal humerus fractures are associated with substantial mortality [6].
  • Surviving patients with proximal humerus fractures frequently have persistent symptoms that can be predicted as early as after 1 year [6].
  • Low arthroplasty survival is observed after treatment for proximal humerus fracture sequelae [9].
  • Patients with pathologic humerus fractures have significantly higher complication rates compared with native humerus fractures after surgical treatment [29].
  • Predictive models using machine learning techniques demonstrate favorable discrimination and satisfactory-to-excellent performance in forecasting prolonged length of stay and serious adverse complications occurring within 30 days of surgical intervention for proximal humerus fracture [59].

Recovery

  • Both age and gender are associated with the definitive treatment received for proximal humerus fractures in patients older than fifty years [3].
  • Treatment algorithms and outcomes for proximal humerus fractures in patients aged 60 years or younger are distinctly different from those in a more elderly population [13].
  • Long-term treatment with reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for displaced 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures provides better functional outcomes compared to nonoperative treatment, a difference attributed to the deterioration of functional outcomes of the nonoperative treatment over time [44].
  • There is substantial mortality in patients with a proximal humerus fracture, and surviving patients frequently have persistent symptoms that can be predicted as early as after 1 year [6].
  • After one year, long-term follow-up of fixed proximal humerus fractures may be unnecessary for those without symptoms [20].
  • Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is used for the treatment of complex, displaced proximal humerus fractures in older individuals (≥ 65 years old) [30].
  • It is a promising treatment for geriatrics with three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures aiming for a better long-term functional outcome [22].
  • The locking plate provides satisfactory functional outcomes after a mid-term follow-up in patients with displaced proximal humerus fractures [23].
  • ORIF of nonosteoporotic proximal humeral fractures with locking plates led to favorable functional and radiologic outcomes at a minimum of 10 years of follow-up [52].
  • Minimally invasive treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in patients younger than 70 years using the Humerusblock yields good midterm clinical and radiological results [31].
  • Timing of surgery does not impact outcomes of patients who underwent ORIF for proximal humerus fractures, with delays beyond 5 days not affecting outcome [84].

Key Evidence

  • [L4] Non-operative management is associated with good outcomes in the majority of proximal humerus fractures in adults. [1] (10.5312/wjo.v5.i5.685)
  • [L4] In the vast majority of cases, proximal humerus fractures may be treated nonoperatively. [2] (10.1155/2012/861598)
  • [L3] Both age and gender have an association with the definitive treatment patients received for proximal humerus fractures over the last decade. [3] (10.1016/j.jseint.2021.11.007)
  • [L4] Over the past decade, most older adults who sustain proximal humerus fractures continue to receive nonoperative treatment. [4] (10.1016/j.jseint.2021.08.006)
  • [L3] Our results suggest that there is a substantial mortality in patients with a proximal humerus fracture, as we have previously reported, and that surviving patients frequently have persistent symptoms that can be predicted as early as after 1 year. [6] (10.1080/17453670510041295)
  • [L5] Consensus when managing proximal humerus fractures is limited to specific scenarios, whereas lack of consensus still exists in others. [7] (10.1016/j.jse.2024.12.005)
  • [L3] These results are pertinent when deciding on the treatment of proximal humerus fracture sequelae. [9] (10.1080/17453674.2020.1793548)
  • [L5] Most pediatric patients with proximal humerus fractures have favorable results, and complications are infrequent. [12] (10.5435/jaaos-d-14-00033)
  • [L4] Treatment algorithms and outcomes following proximal humerus fractures in patients less than or equal to 60 years of age are distinctly different from that of a more elderly population. [13] (10.1016/j.xrrt.2023.01.002)
  • [L3] Mortality at 1 year for fragility proximal humerus fractures is universally high regardless of risk factors. [14] (10.1016/j.jse.2022.03.006)
  • [L1] The available literature does not demonstrate a clear clinical benefit of operative treatment over nonoperative management of proximal humeral fractures in adult patients younger than 65 years. [15] (10.1016/j.xrrt.2021.04.014)
  • [L2] Besides age, most RCTs on surgical management of proximal humerus fractures do not include patient-specific variables within their inclusion and exclusion criteria. [16] (10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.07.023)
  • [L3] However, prospective clinical trials with longer-term follow-up are required for definitive assessment of the ideal fixation construct for surgical management of two-part proximal humerus fractures. [17] (10.1016/j.injury.2013.08.024)
  • [L2] Computed tomography scan was more specific than radiographs in the assessment of proximal humerus fracture sequelae. [18] (10.1177/17585732221150785)
  • [L2] Proximal humerus fractures are now typically osteoporotic fractures in women over 70, with prevalence increasing due to an aging population in poor general condition. [19] (10.1016/j.otsr.2012.05.013)
  • [L3] After one-year, long-term follow-up of fixed proximal humerus fractures may be unnecessary for those without symptoms. [20] (10.1007/s00590-021-03099-6)
  • [L4] They are indicated for complex proximal humerus fractures in patients no younger than 70 years of age. [21] (10.1016/j.otsr.2008.09.002)
  • [L3] It is a promising treatment for geriatrics with three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures aiming for a better long-term functional outcome. [22] (10.1186/s12891-023-06669-3)
  • [L4] The locking plate provides satisfactory functional outcomes after a mid-term follow-up in patients with displaced proximal humerus fractures. [23] (10.1007/s00590-010-0655-z)
  • [Paper] Non-operative treatment of proximal humerus fractures seldom results in displacement that warrants operative intervention, and there is little utility to the routine use of postoperative radiographs in follow-up of these patients. [24] (10.1016/j.otsr.2016.09.022)
  • [L5] The selection of RTSA over other surgical options is a current, reasonable, and safe option to treat proximal humerus fractures, particularly in those with higher Neer grades and/or in older patients. [25] (10.1097/corr.0000000000002430)
  • [L4] Percutaneous treatment of selected proximal humeral fractures results in predictable union and good clinical results with a low rate of complications. [26] (10.1016/j.jse.2006.09.006)
  • [L5] Most proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients can be treated nonoperatively with good functional outcomes. [27] (10.2106/jbjs.l.01293)
  • [L4] The use of artificial intelligence can accurately detect and classify proximal humerus fractures on plain shoulder AP radiographs. [28] (10.1080/17453674.2018.1453714)
  • [L3] After surgical treatment, patients with pathologic humerus fractures had significantly higher complication rates compared with native humerus fractures, suggesting that guidelines and treatment algorithms for native humerus fractures may not be generalizable for those of pathologic origin. [29] (10.1016/j.jse.2020.10.024)
  • [L4] We report current and historical treatments, outcomes, and principles in reverse shoulder arthroplasty for treatment of complex, displaced proximal humerus fractures in older individuals ( ≥ 65 years old). [30] (10.1007/s12178-020-09597-0)
  • [L4] Minimally invasive treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in patients younger than 70 years using the Humerusblock yields good midterm clinical and radiological results. [31] (10.1016/j.injury.2015.05.017)
  • [L5] Evaluation of the classification systems for fractures of the proximal humerus with plain radiographs has yielded low interobserver reliability. [32] (10.1016/j.ocl.2008.05.002)
  • [L5] These biomechanical observations may explain diminished functional results observed in patients treated with inferior tuberosity displacement after prosthetic reconstruction of shoulder fractures. [33] (10.1016/j.jse.2007.02.110)
  • [L4] Nonsurgical management of proximal humerus fractures decreased during the study period. [35] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.03.022)
  • [L3] Range of motion and strength thresholds can identify subjects with normal shoulder function. [36] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.06.005)
  • [L5] Surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures remains far from straightforward, with unpredictable outcomes where factors associated with poor results include being a woman, four-part fracture dislocation, and absence of metaphyseal head extension. [37] (10.1097/corr.0000000000002242)
  • [L4] No single fixation method is a panacea for proximal humeral fractures; choice of implant and method should be selected according to individual patient and fracture pattern characteristics based on clearly defined indications and contraindications. [38] (10.1016/j.injury.2010.10.016)
  • [L1] This trial found no significant difference in clinical outcomes at 2 years between surgery and non-operative treatment in patients 60 years of age or older with displaced 2-part fractures of the proximal humerus. [39] (10.1371/journal.pmed.1002855)
  • [Abstract] These biomechanical changes may explain diminished function in patients with inferior tuberosity positioning after hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures. [40] (10.1016/j.jse.2007.02.027)
  • [L3] A majority of patients with proximal humeral fractures underwent non-operative treatment. [41] (10.1186/s12891-019-2812-9)
  • [L1] Long-term treatment with RSA for displaced 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures provides better functional outcomes compared to nonoperative treatment, a difference attributed to the deterioration of functional outcomes of the nonoperative treatment over time. [44] (10.1016/j.jse.2024.09.032)
  • [L4] The Mayo-FJD classification system for proximal humerus fractures seems to allow high intraobserver and interobserver agreement using both radiographs and computed tomography. [45] (10.1016/j.jse.2023.02.035)
  • [L5] These findings suggest that positioning the arm in abduction and internal rotation may help mitigate deforming muscular forces in proximal humerus fractures. [46] (10.5397/cise.2022.00885)
  • [L3] Nonsurgical treatment should have a more prominent role in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures. [48] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.01.025)
  • [L4] MIPO is a safe and effective option for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures, with good functional recovery and fewer complications, which are typically technique dependent. [49] (10.1016/j.aott.2016.10.003)
  • [L2] Morphologic classification of proximal humerus fractures as the sole basis for treatment algorithms and surgical success should be scrutinized. [50] (10.1016/j.jseint.2022.02.006)
  • [L1] This meta-analysis demonstrates no significant differences in clinical outcomes or complication rates between standard components and fracture-specific components in RSA, suggesting comparable performance in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures. [51] (10.1302/0301-620x.107b9.bjj-2024-1508.r2)
  • [L3] ORIF of nonosteoporotic proximal humeral fractures with locking plates led to favorable functional and radiologic outcomes at a minimum of 10 years of follow-up. [52] (10.1097/corr.0000000000002895)
  • [L2] However, the changed position of the humeral head on coronal plane does not affect the final functional results. [54] (10.4103/0973-6042.118911)
  • [L3] Holistic assessment of outcomes with both subjective and objective outcomes are necessary, as shoulder flexion, extension, and abduction are only moderately correlated with PROMs. [57] (10.1016/j.jseint.2024.02.003)
  • [L4] The paper reviews the biology and biomechanics of osteosynthesis for proximal humerus fractures, emphasizing that bone quality significantly impacts implant anchorage. [58] (10.1007/s00068-007-7089-2)
  • [L3] Predictive models constructed using ML techniques demonstrated favorable discrimination and satisfactory-to-excellent performance in forecasting prolonged LOS and serious adverse complications occurring within 30 days of surgical intervention for proximal humerus fracture. [59] (10.1016/j.jseint.2024.02.005)
  • [Paper] Rotator cuff tears are a detrimental factor and a major cause of painful shoulders. [63] (10.1007/s00264-004-0552-3)
  • [L5] The double plate strategy can increase the stability of the medial column of the proximal humerus, and enhance the overall biomechanical property of the repaired proximal humerus. [64] (10.1186/s12891-024-08216-0)
  • [L4] Evidence-based recommendations to guide treatment of proximal humerus fractures are lacking, and no good evidence exists whether surgery is clearly superior to nonoperative treatment. [65] (10.1016/j.ocl.2008.06.003)
  • [Abstract] Patients with a proximal humerus fracture undergoing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty have significantly worse perioperative outcomes, including higher rates of complications, longer hospital stays, and higher costs, compared to patients with other indications. [67] (10.1016/j.jse.2015.05.005)
  • [L4] There is clear evidence of specific characteristics which differentiate proximal third humeral shaft fractures from those of midshaft and distal third. [69] (10.1016/j.injury.2013.10.030)
  • [L3] Therefore, reverse shoulder arthroplasty could be considered primary treatment, especially when optimal range of motion is of great importance to the patient. [72] (10.1177/17585732231190038)
  • [L4] Glenoid loosening and severe scapular notching are related to poor positioning and/or incorrect orientation of the glenosphere. [74] (10.1016/j.otsr.2018.06.008)
  • [L3] Current diagnosis coding practices do not adequately capture the fracture complexity needed to conduct subgroup analysis for proximal humerus fractures. [75] (10.1016/j.jse.2023.08.022)
  • [L3] CNNs proficiently rule out proximal humerus fractures on plain radiographs. [76] (10.1302/0301-620x.106b11.bjj-2024-0264.r1)
  • [L5] The routine use of 3D-printed models may not be beneficial for classifying proximal humeral fracture patterns beyond the information gained from currently available imaging modalities, and their use as the sole determinant for recommending surgical intervention should be avoided at this time. [79] (10.1097/corr.0000000000002017)
  • [L5] In addition to palpation and anteroposterior and lateral humeral x-ray, we suggest adding bilateral anteroposterior shoulders xray routinely to confirm the shoulder location. [83] (10.1097/md.0000000000008977)
  • [L3] Timing of surgery did not impact outcomes of patients who underwent ORIF for proximal humerus fractures. [84] (10.1016/j.jse.2025.02.019)

References

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[2] Evaluation and Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures. Advances in Orthopedics. 2012. DOI: 10.1155/2012/861598

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[4] Trending a decade of proximal humerus fracture management in older adults. JSES International. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jseint.2021.08.006

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[6] Long-term outcome of a proximal humerus fracture predicted after 1 year. Acta Orthopaedica. 2005. DOI: 10.1080/17453670510041295

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[8] 2. Non-operative Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures: Indications, Protocols, and Outcomes. n.d..

[9] Low arthroplasty survival after treatment for proximal humerus fracture sequelae: 3,245 shoulder replacements from the Nordic Arthroplasty Register Association. Acta Orthopaedica. 2020. DOI: 10.1080/17453674.2020.1793548

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[14] Morbidity and mortality of fragility proximal humerus fractures: a retrospective cohort study of patients presenting to a level one trauma center. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2022.03.006

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[16] Randomized controlled trials investigating proximal humerus fractures lack consensus in inclusion criteria. JSES Reviews, Reports, and Techniques. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.07.023

[17] A comprehensive update on current fixation options for two-part proximal humerus fractures. Injury. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2013.08.024

[18] Computed tomography improves the diagnostic accuracy but not the interobserver reliability of the Boileau classification of proximal humerus fracture sequelae. Shoulder & Elbow. 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17585732221150785

[19] Epidemiology of proximal humerus fractures managed in a trauma center. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2012.05.013

[20] No change in outcome ten years following locking plate repair of displaced proximal humerus fractures. European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology. 2021. DOI: 10.1007/s00590-021-03099-6

[21] Three or four parts complex proximal humerus fractures: Hemiarthroplasty versus reverse prosthesis: A comparative study of 40 cases. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2009. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2008.09.002

[22] Rehabilitation progress following reverse total shoulder replacement and internal fixation for geriatric three and four-part proximal humerus fractures – a propensity score matched comparison. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2023. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06669-3

[23] Results of 131 consecutive operated patients with a displaced proximal humerus fracture: an analysis with more than two years follow-up. European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology. 2010. DOI: 10.1007/s00590-010-0655-z

[24] Reducing resource utilization during non-operative treatment of pediatric proximal humerus fractures. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2016.09.022

[25] CORR Insights®: Short-term Complications for Proximal Humerus Fracture Surgery Have Decreased: An Analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2022. DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002430

[26] Outcomes after percutaneous reduction and fixation of proximal humeral fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2006.09.006

[27] Proximal Humeral Fracture Treatment in Adults. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.l.01293

[28] Automated detection and classification of the proximal humerus fracture by using deep learning algorithm. Acta Orthopaedica. 2018. DOI: 10.1080/17453674.2018.1453714

[29] Morbidity and mortality of surgically treated pathologic humerus fractures compared to native humerus fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2020.10.024

[30] Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fracture. Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine. 2020. DOI: 10.1007/s12178-020-09597-0

[31] Midterm outcome and complications after minimally invasive treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in patients younger than 70 years using the Humerusblock. Injury. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2015.05.017

[32] Classification and Imaging of Proximal Humerus Fractures. Orthopedic Clinics of North America. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.ocl.2008.05.002

[33] Biomechanical Assessment Of Inferior Tuberosity Placement During Hemiarthroplasty For 4-Part Proximal Humerus Fractures G.. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2007.02.110

[35] Cost-Minimization Analysis and Treatment Trends of Surgical and Nonsurgical Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.03.022

[36] Does objective shoulder impairment explain patient-reported functional outcome? A study of proximal humerus fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.06.005

[37] CORR Insights®: What Factors Are Associated With Poor Shoulder Function and Serious Complications After Internal Fixation of Three-part and Four-part Proximal Humerus Fracture-dislocations?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2022. DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002242

[38] New trends in fixation of proximal humeral fractures: A review. Injury. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2010.10.016

[39] Operative versus non-operative treatment for 2-part proximal humerus fracture: A multicenter randomized controlled trial. PLOS Medicine. 2019. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002855

[40] Biomechanical Assessment Of Inferior Tuberosity Placement During Hemiarthroplasty For 4-Part Proximal Humerus Fractures. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2007.02.027

[41] Readmissions, revisions, and mortality after treatment for proximal humeral fractures in three large states. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2019. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2812-9

[44] Long-term outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty versus nonoperative treatment for 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients: results from a prior randomized clinical trial. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2024.09.032

[45] The Mayo-FJD Classification System For Proximal Humerus Fractures: Intra And Interobserver Agreement. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2023.02.035

[46] Biomechanical investigation of arm position on deforming muscular forces in proximal humerus fractures. Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow. 2022. DOI: 10.5397/cise.2022.00885

[48] Locking plate versus nonsurgical treatment for proximal humeral fractures: better midterm outcome with nonsurgical treatment. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.01.025

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