SHOULDER
Cephalotuberosity fracture – Osteosynthesis using a percutaneous humeral nail
Osteosynthesis using a percutaneously inserted locked intramedullary humeral nail is a technique indicated for certain cephalotuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus. It stabilises the fracture whilst minimising soft-tissue damage and preserving bone perfusion. The aim is to achieve union with good alignment, thereby enabling early rehabilitation and restoring a mobile shoulder with minimal pain.
As with any surgical procedure, it carries risks of stiffness, secondary displacement, pseudarthrosis, subacromial impingement related to the implant, rotator cuff injury, infection or, more rarely, necrosis of the humeral head, which may require revision surgery.