How long does a proximal humerus break take to heal?

How long does a proximal humerus break take to heal?

Proximal humerus fractures typically require 6 to 8 weeks for the bone to heal, plus a period of rehabilitation of about 3 to 6 months. The goal of rehabilitation is to restore arm function and help you return to regular activities as soon as possible.

How do you reduce swelling from a humerus fracture?

These include:

1. Cold packs. Putting an ice pack on the injured area may help reduce swelling and pain.
2. Pain medicines. Taking prescription or over-the-counter pain medicines may help reduce pain and swelling.
3. Exercises.

What is Malunion humerus?

By definition, malunion of the proximal humerus corresponds to the healing of a fractured bone in a non-anatomical position. This results in a painful and disabling deformity that may lead to the patient requesting a correction and functional restoration.

What is a common complication of a proximal humerus fracture?

The complications of proximal humeral fractures may occur as a result of the injury, or secondary to operative treatment. Several have been previously discussed and they most commonly are related to avascular necrosis and/or tuberosity malunion.

What is the difference between malunion and nonunion?

A malunion occurs when a fractured bone heals in an abnormal position, which can lead to impaired function of the bone or limb and make it look like it is ‘bent’. Similarly, a nonunion is the result of a fractured bone failing to heal after an extended period of time – in some cases over a period of 9 to 12 months.

What is surgical neck of humerus?

FMA. 23359. Anatomical terminology. The surgical neck of the humerus is a constriction below the tubercles of the greater tubercle and lesser tubercle, and above the deltoid tuberosity. It is much more frequently fractured than the anatomical neck of the humerus.

Is there a cure for malunion of the proximal humerus?

No proximal humerus fracture treatment method (conservative treatment, internal fixation, etc.) is immune to the risk of malunion; even primary shoulder arthroplasty performed in fracture cases has the risk of periprosthetic malunion [2].

When does a malunion occur in a humerus?

Malunion may be encountered after conservative treatment or internal fixation of fractures, and also around a joint prosthesis. The malunion can involve the greater and lesser tuberosities, humeral head, bicipital groove, or the entire epiphysis.

Can a nonunion fracture occur in a proximal humerus?

Proximal humerus fractures are common injuries and the development of nonunion or malunion is infrequent. However, these complications can occur with both operative and non-operative treatment of the fracture.

How are nonunion and malunion fractures treated?

The treatment of a not tolerated nonunion or malunion is surgical. Depending on bone quality, degree of deformity and patient related issues different techniques are possible 9, 10. In order to restore native articulation biomechanics or bone loss, treatment may vary among osteotomies and a new osteosynthesis with associated grafting.