Expanding the indications of horizontal plate fixation to the proximal humerus: Technical note and clinical series.

INTRODUCTION: Isolated greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus are relatively uncommon injuries, and there is no consensus regarding the optimal fixation method for displaced fractures. This study aimed to describe a horizontal plate fixation technique and to demonstrate its clinical applicability and feasibility in the treatment of isolated greater tuberosity fractures.

METHODS: This study consists of a technical description of the horizontal plate fixation technique, followed by its retrospective clinical application. A series of 11 patients with isolated greater tuberosity fractures treated with this method between 2009 and 2021 was included. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Functional outcomes were assessed using the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale.

RESULTS: All patients achieved fracture union. The mean UCLA score was 30, with predominantly good functional outcomes. Most patients reported mild or occasional pain and minimal functional limitation.

CONCLUSION: Horizontal plate osteosynthesis is a reproducible and accessible technique that demonstrated satisfactory clinical applicability in this series of patients with isolated greater tuberosity fractures. Further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.