Multifragmentary dislocated humeral head fracture—A case report of a successful head preserving treatment strategy despite delayed presentation

INTRODUCTION: Head preserving, delayed osteosynthesis five days after a luxated, multifragmentary humeral head fracture is rarely seen and a challenge for the surgeon. PRESENTATION OF CASE: This case history describes the case of a 69-year-old female with delayed head preserving treatment of a dislocated multifragmentary humeral head fracture using intramedullary nailing, avoiding a primary trauma arthroplasty after strict refusal of the patient despite poor prognosis and high risk of avascular humeral head necrosis. DISCUSSION: The treatment of the humeral head fracture is still a matter of debate, the “golden standard” does not exist, especially in the deferred luxated situation. With the use of modern implants head preserving treatment is reasonable and possible. It should therefore always be taken into account as an alternative for arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: Excellent postoperative outcome can be achieved by joint reconstruction eliminating the possible side effects of shoulder endoprosthesis.