Suture Technique in Treatment of Displaced Proximal Humeral Fractures

Kim, Do Yung; Shin, Joo Ho; Im, Gun Il; Han, Jae Dong; Im, Sueng Ryul; Cho, Won Ho

Abstract

PURPOSE
To find out the advantages and disadvantages of the suture technique and improve the method of operation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Postoperative follow-up of at least one year was possible in thirteen cases including 7 surgical neck fractures and 6 three-part fractures. The results were analysed radiographically and clinically using a modified UCLA scale.
RESULTS
There was one non-union and except for that case, the average union time was 10.2 weeks. Active forward flexion averaged 140 degrees, external rotation 50 degrees and internal rotation between T12 and L1 vertebra. The clinical results were 3 excellent, 5 good and 4 fair. There was no significant corelation (P=0.538) between fracture type and clinical results statistically. But for above 65 years, the UCLA scale averaged 25.8 points and for under 65 years, 31.6 points (P=0.006 ) .
CONCLUSION
The use of a suture technique for these displaced fracture without the use of metals achieved a high percentage of acceptable results. But in order to achieve good stability and early exercise, the neck fragment had to be impacted into the humeral head and the medial and lateral part of the neck fracture should be fixed together. Therefore, it is difficult to use this method for severely comminuted neck fractures.