Racial disparities in early postoperative proximal humerus fracture outcomes: Do minorities face longer operative times, extended hospital stays, and higher risks?

Background: Racial disparities in orthopedic surgery outcomes have been extensively documented, highlighting systemic biases in care. Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs), about 6% of all fractures, are rising, especially among the elderly. Despite the prevalence of PHFs, a research gap exists regarding racial disparities in postoperative complications and outcomes.

Methods: Data from the American College of Surgeons NSQIP database from 2006 to 2021 were analyzed, including 41,285 patients with PHFs. CPT and ICD codes guided inclusion and exclusion criteria. Propensity-score matching balanced a cohort of 17,052 patients. Demographic variables, comorbidities, and outcomes were analyzed using univariate statistics, chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests.

Results: Post propensity-score matching, significant demographic disparities emerged between white and minority patients. Minority patients had longer operative times (p < .001) and hospital stays (p = .001) than white patients. Minority patients also exhibited higher rates of mortality (p = .04) and unplanned re-intubation (p = .04).

Conclusion: This study revealed significant racial disparities in early postoperative outcomes for PHFs. Despite surgical advancements, minorities have prolonged operative times, extended hospital stays, and heightened risks of adverse events. Action is needed to ensure healthcare equity and justice and to address disparities in PHF surgical management across diverse demographics.

Level of evidence: III.