Prosthetic replacement in acute fractures of the proximal humerus.

The surgical treatment of selected displaced fractures of the proximal humerus with a humeral head prosthesis is a challenging procedure. Adequate knowledge of the pertinent anatomy and biomechanics of the shoulder as well as a clear roentgenographic evaluation of the displaced fracture patterns are essential. Successful prosthetic replacement requires adherence to technical factors involving soft tissue mobilization, prosthetic insertion, and tuberosity repair. Also, it is important to have a closely supervised rehabilitation program to achieve early passive motion and strengthening after fracture healing.