How is a Proximal Humerus fracture diagnosed?
Your surgeon will perform a physical exam and obtain x-rays. If surgery is a possibility, a CT scan or MRI may be ordered. How is it treated? Non-operative Most proximal humerus fractures can be treated without surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe a splint or a sling for up to six weeks. Physical therapy to maintain shoulder range of motion begins as soon as the patient can tolerate it. This prevents stiffness in the shoulder. Periodic x-rays will be obtained to be sure the fracture is healing. Operative Your surgeon may recommend an operation if the fracture fragments are displaced, or separated from the other fragments. If displaced fragments heal out of position, the patient may lose motion in the shoulder, or develop arthritis. Operative treatment depends on the location of the fracture. Greater tuberosity fractures occur where the rotator cuff attaches to the top of the humerus. The rotator cuff generally remains attached to the fragment. If a fragment is displaced more than 5 mm,
