title: Classification and imaging of proximal humerus fractures.
abstract: The decision to operate and the selection of the appropriate surgical modality for proximal humerus fractures are largely based on the fracture pattern. Understanding the particular fracture pattern in each case is complicated. Most well-accepted classification systems were developed based on radiographs complemented by intraoperative findings. Three-dimensional reconstructions based on CT currently available in most institutions allow a much better understanding of complex fractures. Modern thinking about fracture classification probably should be revisited in the light of improved imaging techniques.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, Wilford Hall Medical Center, 2200 Bergquist Drive, Suite 1, Lackland AFB, TX 78236, USA.
authors.forename: Ben C
authors.initials: BC
authors.lastname: Robinson
authors.forename: George S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Athwal
authors.forename: Joaquin
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sanchez-Sotelo
authors.forename: Damian M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Rispoli
mesh_terms: D015519:Bone Density; D006801:Humans; D006811:Humerus / Q000098:blood supply; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011859:Radiography / Q000379:methods; D012540:Scapula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D012784:Shoulder Fractures / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D012785:Shoulder Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed