Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part C (2024)

Background: Proximal humerus fractures are a growing concern in healthcare, accounting for 6% of adult fractures. Treatment remains challenging, with controversies surrounding optimal management.
Objectives: To assess functional outcomes of proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS plate in adults. 
Methods: Prospective observational study of 30 patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS plate at a single center. Patients were followed up immediately post-operation and at six weeks. Functional outcomes were assessed using DASH and Constant Shoulder scores. 
Results: Mean age was 51.4 years, with 18 males and 12 females. Fracture types included 2-part (n=10), 3-part (n=12), and 4-part (n=8). Mean time since injury was 4.9 days. Outcome was good in 12, moderate in 15, and poor in 3 patients. Mean DASH score was 21.25, and mean Constant Shoulder score was 73.4. No significant differences were found in outcomes based on fracture type, age, or gender. 
Conclusion: Treatment of proximal humerus fractures using proximal humerus locking plates yielded positive functional outcomes, with optimal results observed in individuals with 2-part fractures. Notably, the number of fracture fragments and timing of surgical intervention did not significantly influence the outcomes. While the Constant Shoulder score revealed moderate scores with reduced pain in 2-part fractures, the DASH scores indicated satisfactory results, with 4-part fractures demonstrating the highest patient satisfaction. Overall, the study indicates that the PHILOS plate provides effective stabilization for proximal humeral fractures, although extended follow-up is necessary to comprehensively evaluate its effects.