Proximal Humerus Non-Union

Question 1

epidemiology

Answer 1

• 90% of these fractures are managed non operatively in initial phases

non union is very rare (1-3%)

• Non union risk factors - most probably relate to disruption of medially based HH blood supply
  
  • Medial metaphyseal comminution - 8% non union
  • Surgical neck fractures displaced 33-100% of shaft width - 10 % non union
  • Two part surgical neck fracture
  • Smoking - 5.5 x increase