Tension suture fixation using 2 washers for proximal humeral fractures.

The surgical treatment for proximal humeral fractures is challenging, especially in patients with osteoporosis. Locking plates and intramedullary nails have been widely used with satisfactory results, but previously reported complications have not been substantially reduced. Several authors have emphasized the importance of maintaining soft tissues around the proximal humerus with respect to limiting displacement and maintaining stability. To prevent postoperative complications, such as fixation failure and malunion, several supplementary suture techniques using nonabsorabable sutures that allow for the incorporation of the rotator cuff as a fixation point have been described. Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.