Proximal humerus fracture
| Proximal humerus fracture | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Proximal humeral fracture |
| Multi-fragmented fracture of the proximal humerus with involvement of the greater tuberosity | |
| Specialty | Orthopedics |
| Symptoms | Pain, swelling, decreased ability to move the shoulder |
| Types | 1 part, 2 part, 3 part, 4 part |
| Causes | Fall onto the arm, direct trauma to the arm |
| Risk factors | Osteoporosis |
| Diagnostic method | X-rays, CT scan |
| Treatment | Arm sling, specific exercises, surgery |
| Frequency | Common |
A proximal humerus fracture is a break of the upper part of the bone of the arm (humerus). Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a decreased ability to move the shoulder. Complications may include axillary nerve or axillary artery injury.
The cause is generally a fall onto the arm or direct trauma to the arm. Risk factors include osteoporosis and diabetes. Diagnosis is generally based on X-rays or CT scan. It is a type of humerus fracture. A number of classification systems exist.
Treatment is generally with an arm sling for a brief period of time followed by specific exercises. This appears appropriate in many cases even when the fragments are separated. Less commonly surgery is recommended.
Proximal humerus fractures are common. Older people are most commonly affected. In this age group they are the third most common fractures after hip and Colles fractures. Women are more often affected than men.