Fractures of the greater tuberosity of the humerus: a study of associated rotator cuff injury and atrophy

BackgroundThis is a retrospective prognostic study on soft tissue injury following isolated greater tuberosity (GT) fractures of the proximal humerus with respect to the relationship between rotator cuff tears and GT displacement.MethodsForty-three patients with isolated GT fractures were recruited and evaluated with a standardized interview and physical examination, quality of life and shoulder function questionnaires (Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, SF-12 Version 2, Constant, Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, Visual Analogue Scale), standard shoulder radiographs and an ultrasound. The main outcome measurements were: incidence of rotator cuff tears and atrophy, biceps pathology and sub-acromial impingement; superior displacement of the GT fragment; and questionnaire scores.ResultsMean age was 57 years (31 years to 90 years) with a follow-up of 2.4 years (0.8 years to 6.8 years). In total, 16% had a full rotator cuff tear and 57% showed subacromial impingement on ultrasound. Full rotat...