Low complication rates in Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) for proximal humeral fractures at 5 years of follow-up

Abstract Introduction: Purpose of this study was to analyse the medium term follow-up of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for proximal humeral fractures in terms of postoperative shoulder function, radiological outcome and complications. Methods: 76 consecutive patients with unstable proximal humeral fractures were treated using locking plate with a minimally invasive antero-lateral approach in two surgical centers. Constant score and radiographic evaluation of 74 patients were available at mean follow up of 5 years (minimum 4 years). Results: Mean Constant score was 74 (range to 28–100). Results were comparable in the two centers. Younger patients registered significantly higher scores (p  Discussion and conclusions: Even at a medium term follow-up, MIPO for proximal humeral fractures ensured good and reproducible results for most common pattern of fractures. Major complications were lower respect to open procedures, because of soft tissue, deltoid muscle and circumflex vessels sparing.