Early outcomes of locked noncemented stems for the management of proximal humeral fractures: a comparative study

Background: Proximal humeral fractures are common and a major concern in public health resources utilization. There is an increase in the use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) as an option for complex fractures in the elderly. The complexity of the technique in RTSA is increased because of the fracture. To find an advantage of locking stems in RTSA for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures, we designed a comparative study between fracture-dedicated locking stems vs. cemented stems. Materials and methods: We retrospectively studied 58 patients treated with an RTSA after a fracture. We compared how the implant design and the tuberosity consolidation affects patient outcome through measuring range of motion and the Constant score. Results: The groups were similar in age, sex, time to surgery, and Constant score in the uninjured side. Patients treated with a dedicated locking noncemented stem performed better, with an increased Constant score (P >.05) and reached more mobility with no statistical significance. We found that 13 of the 24 fractures (54%) treated with a cemented stem consolidated, and 26 of 34 tuberosities (76%) healed in the noncemented locked stems. Patients with tuberosity consolidation acquired better range of motion and Constant scores (P <.05). Conclusions: A dedicated stem improves tuberosity healing and increases outcomes seen in Constant scores. Tuberosity consolidation is a main goal when treating proximal humeral fractures with RTSA.