Comparative analysis of active range of motion in patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with osteosynthesis versus shoulder arthroplasty

Background: Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) are a common injury and account for approximately 10% of all fractures in individuals aged 65 and older. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare active range of motion (ROM) at 6 and 12 months post-operatively between osteosynthesis and arthroplasty in patients aged 50-80 years diagnosed with Neer III, IV, or VI PHFs. Material and methods: Data were gathered from 56 patients treated between January 2016 and January 2023. ROM was measured at 6 and 12 months. This research was conducted at a level III trauma center. Patients between 50 and 80 years, diagnosed with a Neer III, IV, or VI PHF, treated with osteosynthesis or shoulder arthroplasty, and who had available follow-up data at 6 and 12-month post-operatively were included. Results: A total of 108 patient records were reviewed. Of these, 52 patients were excluded, resulting in a final cohort of 56 patients. Forty-five patients underwent osteosynthesis and eleven underwent arthroplasty. Conclusions: Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is an effective treatment option for PHFs, providing better active ROM at both 6 and 12 months post-operatively.