ORIF Surgery for Proximal Humerus Fracture

ORIF surgery for a proximal humerus fracture is an orthopaedic treatment that can repair a fracture in the bone of the upper arm. This article will help you understand what the surgery involves and when it may be recommended.

Overview of ORIF surgery for proximal humerus fracture

ORIF surgery stands for open reduction internal fixation and may be recommended to treat a break in the proximal end of the humerus, which is the top of the upper arm bone near the shoulder. In this procedure, an orthopaedic surgeon will make an incision in the upper arm and insert metal pins, screws, rods, or a plate to stabilize the fractured bone.

This stability will give the fractured bone the opportunity to heal. In some cases, a severe fracture can cause part of the humerus bone to shift out of place. The surgeon will first realign the bone and then secure the metal plate, screws, pins, or rods to provide stability. The incision is then closed, and the patient will go through rehabilitative physical therapy to restore normal functioning of the arm and shoulder.

An orthopaedic doctor will determine if ORIF surgery for a proximal humerus fracture is the best course of treatment depending on the individual case since not all patients are good candidates for surgery.

Causes of proximal humerus fracture

Fractures in the upper arm bone can occur in a variety of ways. The humerus can break in accidents, like a car accident or sports accident that involves a sudden impact to the bone.

They are also common injuries from a fall. Humerus fractures tend to happen when someone throws their arm out to catch themselves as they fall. The direct blow can dislodge the bone and lead to a fracture at the proximal end of the humerus.

Symptoms of proximal humerus fracture

Common symptoms of a proximal humerus fracture include

Intense pain in the upper arm or shoulder
Swelling
Tenderness to the touch
Grinding sound or feeling
Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
Bruising
Noticeable change to the arm or shoulder’s shape

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention to avoid further injury or damage.

Treatment for proximal humerus fracture: ORIF surgery

If the humerus bone has not been displaced, it may be able to be treated with a sling or cast that keeps the shoulder and upper arm immobilized. Regular physical therapy exercises can also help to improve the arm’s strength and range of motion.

In more extreme cases, ORIF surgery for proximal humerus fracture may be recommended. Open reduction internal fixation can help stabilize the broken bone with metal plates, screws, pins, or rods and allow the fracture to heal. Physical therapy exercises can then help stretch and strengthen the arm and shoulder to restore their range of motion.