Posterior Fracture-Dislocation of the Proximal Humerus: Treatment by Closed Reduction and Limited Fixation

Abstract

Four cases of posterior fracture dislocation of the proximal humerus were treated with closed reduction followed by immobilization and/or limited surgical fixation. All patients were adult males and sustained these isolated injuries in low-energy sporting trauma. Three patients followed for an average of 40 months postinjury had excellent results. These cases demonstrate the importance of adequate radiologic examination to avoid missed or delayed diagnosis and that closed reduction of these unusual injuries is frequently possible.