UZER, GÖKÇERYILDIZ, FATİHElmadağ, MehmetBilsel, KeremPULATKAN, Anil2019-10-052019-10-052015-05-01UZER G., YILDIZ F., Elmadağ M., Bilsel K., PULATKAN A., -Treatment of unusual proximal humeral fractures using unilateral external fixator: a case series-, European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, cilt.25, ss.683-687, 2015https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12645/589https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00590-014-1579-9Objective To report the functional and radiological results of unusual comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus, treated with ‘closed reduction and external fixation’ (CREF) using hybrid-type unilateral external fixators (EFs). Patients and methods Between January 2012 and June 2013, eight patients (mean age 62.6; range 48–84 years) with comminuted proximal humeral fractures extending to the humeral head and one-third proximal diaphysis were treated with CREF using hybrid-type EFs. Functional results were evaluated in terms of shoulder ranges of movement, Constant, DASH, and VAS scores, and radiological results were evaluated using antero-posterior and lateral radiograms of the treated humerus. Results The mean follow-up was 16.6 (range 12–28) months. The mean fixator time was 84 (range 63–118) days. The mean range of forward flexion, internal rotation, external rotation, and abduction were 145°, 61.2°, 65°, and 115°, respectively. The mean Constant, DASH, and VAS scores were 79.8, 10, and 1.75, respectively. Seven of the eight patients (87.5 %) healed radiologically. Two complications were observed in two patients: non-union and superficial pin site infection. Conclusions In the treatment of unusual, comminuted proximal diaphyseal humeral fractures, CREF using a hybrid-type EF is a minimally invasive, advantageous procedure with acceptable rates of healing, low risk of surgical site infection, and early range of motion. Level of evidence Level IV, case series.enProximal Humeral FracturesArticle8493995805110.1007/s00590-014-1579-925524319