Unexpected Failure of Plate Osteosynthesis of a Proximal Humerus Fracture Following a Seizure Episode in the Early Postoperative Period

Seizure disorders have been commonly linked with fractures and dislocations of the shoulder region. However, catastrophic failure of plate osteosynthesis of a proximal humerus fracture, following a seizure episode in an early postoperative period, has not been reported. We present a case report of a middle-aged male patient who was treated satisfactorily for a right proximal humerus fracture with plate osteosynthesis but experienced a seizure episode in the early postoperative period. The seizure episode resulted in a catastrophic failure of the plate fixation. The patient was then managed with plate and screw removal and revision fixation with a lightweight pin-based external fixator. Further, the functional outcomes were satisfactory. Extreme caution must be exercised to manage proximal humerus fractures in people with epilepsy concerning anticonvulsant drug compliance and osteoporosis.