Background: Fractures of the proximal humerus are common in elderly patients, especially in osteoporotic bone. Requirements for surgical treatment are high primary stability to allow early functional physiotherapy. The Non-Contact Bridging (NCB) Plate for the proximal humerus (PH) is a new head locking system for treating fractures of the proximal humerus which allows minimally invasive surgery (MIS).
Methods: In this contribution, the implant and technique are described, as well as the analysis of the first clinical results after 61 procedures.
Results: In a mainly elderly patient population (mean: 73 years, range: 50-91 years) 61 minimally-invasive procedures were performed. The placement of screws led to a high primary stability. Primary implant failure occurred in one case (1.69%). The average constant score after 6 months was 62 points (age related mean 72).
Conclusions: Using the MIS-technique, the NCB-PH plate provides high primary stability, allowing functional treatment without postoperative limitations. The first clinical results show a good functional outcome in a mainly elderly patient population.