Glenohumeral joint lavage does not affect clinical outcomes in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial

Background: This prospective, randomized, and double-blinded trial evaluates the effect of intraoperative glenohumeral joint lavage in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures. Methods: Between January 2016 and April 2018, 86 patients (mean age: 65.2 +/- 16.3 years) with a displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fracture were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using locking plates. Patients were randomized to either locked plating followed by intraoperatively performed glenohumeral joint lavage (group L, n= 36) or locked plating without the lavage (group NL, n=36). Functional outcome assessment included range of shoulder motion, strength, and the Constant score, obtained 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. A total of 62 shoulders could be reviewed for final investigation (86% follow-up). Results: One year after open reduction and internal fixation, the mean Constant score was 70 +/- 14 (group L, n=31) compared with 73 +/- 14 (group NL, n=31, P=.272). The mean forward flexion and abduction in group L was 134 +/- 33 and 128 +/- 33 as compared with 139 +/- 32 and 135 +/- 32 in group NL, respectively (P=.538, P=.427). The mean external rotation was 40 +/- 16 (group L) compared with 44 +/- 16 (group NL) (P=.210). The overall complication rate was 9.6% and did not differ significantly between the groups (P=.321). In group L, there were 2 cases of avascular necrosis (6.5%) and 1 case of secondary displacement (3.2%). In group NL, 1 case of avascular necrosis (3.2%) and 1 case of secondary displacement were noted (3.2%, P=.742). Conclusion: The results of this study do not demonstrate a need for glenohumeral joint lavage in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures with regard to shoulder function at 1-year follow-up. Level of evidence: Level 1; Randomized Controlled Trial; Treatment Study (C) 2020 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. All rights reserved.