Treatment of displaced fractures of the proximal humerus: transcutaneous reduction and Hoffmann's external fixation

Experience with transcutaneous reduction and external fixation of displaced fractures of the proximal humerus is presented in a series of 28 cases followed for 1 year or more. In 18 cases near-anatomical fracture reduction was obtained, while no improvement of fracture position was seen in two cases. Loosening of the pins was a major complication in five cases, all in patients with severe osteoporosis or head splitting fractures, where fracture reduction was unsatisfactory. The functional results were satisfactory, and the method is considered a useful alternative in the treatment of these difficult fractures.