The proximal humerus is the upper portion of the humerus bone, which is the long bone of the arm. It is located near the shoulder joint and is crucial for arm movement and stability. The area just below the head is the potential site for fractures. Injuries or conditions affecting the proximal humerus, such as fractures or arthritis, can significantly affect shoulder function and mobility.
What are the causes of Proximal humerus injuries?
Proximal humerus injuries can occur due to various causes, including:
- Trauma or Falls
- Sports Injuries
- Age-related Changes
- Direct Impact
- Repetitive Stress
- Medical Conditions
- Poor Posture and Mechanics
It’s important to seek medical attention for any shoulder injury to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of treatment.
When is a proximal humerus surgery done?
Surgery for proximal humerus injuries is typically considered in the following situations:
Severe Fractures: If the proximal humerus is fractured into multiple pieces (comminuted fracture) or if the fracture is displaced (the bone fragments are out of alignment), surgical intervention may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bone.
Non-Union or Malunion: When fractures do not heal properly, resulting in chronic pain or dysfunction, surgical procedures may be needed to correct the alignment and facilitate healing.
Significant Joint Instability: If the injury has caused instability in the shoulder joint that cannot be managed effectively with conservative treatments, surgery may be required to restore stability.
Rotator Cuff Tears: In cases where a fracture is associated with a rotator cuff tear that affects shoulder function, surgical repair may be indicated, especially if the tear is large or complete.
Failed Conservative Treatment: If initial non-surgical treatments (such as rest, physical therapy, or immobilization) do not lead to an improvement in symptoms or function over time, surgery may be recommended.
Patient Factors: Individual factors, such as age, activity level, and overall health, can influence the decision for surgery. For example, younger, more active individuals may be more likely to undergo surgery to restore full function.
The specific type of surgery performed can vary based on the nature of the injury, and it may involve techniques such as fixation using plates or screws, shoulder joint replacement, or arthroscopic repair. Consulting with a shoulder surgeon like Dr.Chandra Sekhar B is crucial to determine the appropriate approach based on the specific circumstances of the injury.
Proximal humerus surgery
Proximal humerus surgery aims to repair fractures or other issues in the upper part of the humerus (the upper arm bone). The type of surgery performed depends on the nature and severity of the injury. Here are the common procedures involved:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
– In this procedure, the surgeon makes an incision over the shoulder to access the fractured area.
– The bones are realigned (reduced) to their proper position. Internal fixation devices, such as plates, screws, or rods, are used to hold the bone fragments together while they heal.
Humeral Head Replacement:
– The damaged humeral head is removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant.
– This can be a partial replacement (only the head) or a total shoulder replacement (involving both the head and the socket).
Arthroscopic Surgery:
– The surgeon makes small incisions and uses specialized instruments to repair soft tissues, such as rotator cuff tears, or to perform debridement of damaged tissue.
Fracture Fixation:
– In the case of non-displaced or stable fractures, fixation may involve the use of pins or screws without the need for extensive open surgery.
What is the recovery time from proximal humerus surgery?
After surgery, patients typically undergo a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the shoulder. Pain management strategies will also be utilized during recovery. The recovery time can vary widely depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual’s health and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
Each patient’s situation is unique, and the complete surgical approach will depend on factors like the specific fracture patterns, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Consulting with a shoulder surgeon like Dr.Chandra Sekhar B will provide personalized guidance on the procedure and recovery expectations.
The recovery time after proximal humerus surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery performed (e.g., fixation, replacement), the individual’s overall health, age, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Generally, recovery can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.
Typically, initial healing and range of motion can be expected within 6 to 12 weeks, but full recovery, including strength and functional recovery, may take 3 to 6 months or longer. Physical therapy usually plays a crucial role in rehabilitation during this period. It’s essential to follow Dr.Chandra Sekhar B’s recommendations and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
For more information, please visit our website https://hyderabadshoulderclinic.com/ or contact us at +91 9959588389 or shoulderandsportsclinic@gmail.com.
