title: Locked intramedullary nailing for treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures.
abstract: Controversy surrounds the optimal technique for fixation of displaced fractures, although locked intramedullary nailing is emerging as a preferred technique in managing displaced proximal humerus fractures in appropriately selected patients. This technique provides stable fracture fixation allowing early postoperative mobilization critical in ensuring a pain-free shoulder with a functional range of motion. Additional advantages include the ability to insert by way of a minimally invasive approach with limited soft tissue dissection, achieve accurate anatomic reduction, provide a secure construct even in the situation of osteopenic bone or comminution, and manage fractures of the proximal humerus extending into the shaft.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatic Surgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, Pacific Highway, St. Leonards, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia.
authors.forename: Allan A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Young
authors.forename: Jeffery S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Hughes
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001858:Bone Nails; D005594:Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / Q000379:methods*; D018460:Fractures, Comminuted / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D011182:Postoperative Care; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012784:Shoulder Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome