The Orthopedic clinics of North America
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Orthop. Clin. North Am. · Oct 2008
ReviewOpen reduction and internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures.
Open reduction of proximal humeral fractures has the advantage of providing direct control over each fracture fragment and permitting anatomic reduction and fixation with advanced devices. Modern fixed-angle locking plates designed specifically for proximal humerus fractures have allowed the expansion of surgical indications permitting surgeons to address more complicated fractures. Advanced preoperative imaging and fluoroscopy allow a better understanding of fracture patterns and permit the surgeon to use this knowledge intraoperatively. Research is required to further validate fracture classification systems, to develop surgical guidelines for decision making, and to compare the outcomes of the various treatments options for proximal humerus fractures.
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Surgical treatment of proximal humeral nonunions and malunions are technically challenging. Osteosynthesis with bone grafting for the treatment of nonunions is indicated in young, active patients with adequate bone stock in the proximal fragment and preservation of the glenohumeral articular surfaces. Corrective osteotomy may be a reasonable option for proximal humeral malunions in young patients without evidence of degenerative joint disease. Arthroplasty for proximal humerus nonunions and malunions has a guarded outcome because of limitations in shoulder motion, but pain relief is more consistently improved upon.
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Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are a frequent diagnosis following an acute shoulder injury. The literature on AC joint dislocation is extensive, reflecting the intense debate surrounding the topic. The choice of treatment is influenced by factors including the type of injury, the patient's occupation, the patient's past medical history, the acuity of the injury, and patient expectations. ⋯ It is difficult to study with a well-designed prospective study because of the low frequency of this injury. Posterior dislocations are much less common than anterior dislocations. Posterior dislocations, however, are more serious; they are associated with significant complications and require prompt attention.
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The glenohumeral joint is the most mobile articulation in the body and the most commonly dislocated diarthroidal joint. Anterior dislocation is by far the most common direction and can lead to instability of the glenohumeral joint, which ranges from subtle increased laxity to recurrent dislocation. ⋯ Likewise, significant advances in arthroscopic equipment have allowed use of the arthroscope to address anatomically the various lesions that cause instability. This article reviews the anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical evaluation, and treatment of anterior shoulder instability.