PHILOS by Delto-pectoral or deltoid splitting approach: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: Proximal humerus fractures is the most common fracture in shoulder girdle in adults. Surgical treatment is increasing with PHILOS using Delto-pectoral or Deltoid splitting approaches. Aims: To compare the outcome of PHILOS using the two approaches. Materials and methods: Patients (n=41) with proximal humerus fractures, analysed prospectively, managed surgically using the two approaches, delto-pectoral (n=18) and Deltoid split (n=23). Results analysed on the basis of Constant-Murley Score at minimum follow-up period of 12 months (range 12 to 35 months). Results: The mean Constant-Murley Score in Delto-pectoral group is 72.22 compared to 73.70 in Deltoid split group (p=0.717). The time to union in the two groups being 11.7 and 11.9 weeks respectively. Conclusion: Outcome of the two approaches are comparable, can be used as per surgeons preference.