“Study of outcome of proximal humerus fracture treated with proximal humerus internal locking system (Philos) plating”

Introduction: Proximal humerus fractures are common and debilitating injuries, especially in elderly as osteoporosis and deforming forces of muscle attached. Wide range of treatment modalities ranging from conservative management to shoulder arthroplasty. In our study we have evaluated proximal humerus interlocking osteosynthesis (PHILOS) plate in internal fixation of proximal humerus fracture. Background and Objective: The objective of study 1) To evaluate and analyse the functional outcomes of PHILOS plate for displaced fractures of proximal humerus 2) To improve stability in osteoporotic humeral bone 3) To preserve the biological integrity of the humeral head and to secure an anatomical reduction with multiple locking screws with angular stability 4) To study the complication rates of PHILOS plating in proximal humerus fractures Material and Method: A prospective study of treatment of proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS plate was carried out at our institute, at the Department of Orthopaedics, S.S.G. Hospital Vadodara from June 2021 to august 2022, where after applying exclusion and inclusion criterion, 20 patients of proximal humerus fractures were included in our study. Fractures were classified as per AO classification. Assessment of union, movements at shoulder, constant score and complications were done during regular follow-up of 4 month. The functional outcome was measured using Constant and Murley Shoulder Scoring System. Results: We had 20% excellent, 55% good results, 15% fair & 10% poor results. Discussion and Conclusion: The divergent and convergent orientation of the locking screws of PHILOS plate provides stable biological fixation with high union rate to use for treatment of fractures of the proximal humerus in Neer’s 2-part, 3-part, and 4-part with better functional and radiological outcome especially in osteoporotic bone due to low complication and early postoperative mobilization. Potential minimal complication can be prevented by advanced surgical skill and expertise and rotator cuff tying.