Locked plating for proximal humeral fractures

Purpose of review Proximal humeral fracture fixation has been affected by the widespread popularity of locked plating. The purpose of this paper is to review recent clinical outcomes of proximal humeral fractures treated with locked plating. Recent findings The clinical performance of these plates has enjoyed good reviews in the recent literature; however, reported complications are higher than one might expect (36% in one series). Complications most commonly associated with these implants are those related to problems of fixation in osteopenic bone and implant positioning resulting in subacromial impingement. Summary Locked plates are useful tools in proximal humeral fracture fixation, especially in osteopenic bone. The higher expense of these implants in comparison with standard nonlocking plates may be a concern. The indications for use of this plate should be considered along with the fracture pattern, bone quality, age of the patient, and weighed against other forms of fixation.