Reverse shoulder prosthesis as revision surgery after fractures of the proximal humerus, treated initially by internal fixation or hemiarthroplasty.

Complex (3-4 fragments) fractures of the proximal humerus often have a bad outcome, whatever treatment is performed. When revision surgery is required, reverse shoulder prosthesis can improve function and reduce pain in these patients. We analysed whether the choice of the first treatment (hemiarthroplasty vs. reduction and fixation) can influence the outcome of revision surgery. Our data demonstrate that results are not significantly dependent on the choice of the first implant, even though there is a tendency for patients with previous hemiarthroplasty to have a worse outcome.