How do you treat a fracture of the greater tuberosity of the humerus?
If the fracture fragment is large enough, fixation can be performed arthroscopically using screws (with or without washers) or sutures. A small fracture fragment may be removed, and the rotator cuff may be repaired arthroscopically to the greater tuberosity fracture bed.
Is a greater tuberosity fracture painful?
When a person fractures their greater tuberosity there are several symptoms they may experience. The most common symptoms are pain when lifting or moving the arm, swelling, and limited motion in the shoulder.
How do you sleep with a greater tuberosity fracture?
You may find it easier to sleep propped up with pillows. Using your arm: It is important to keep the shoulder moving to prevent stiffness but not to aggravate the injury.
How is a greater tuberosity fracture treated?
Greater tuberosity fractures can be successfully treated nonsurgically in most cases (85% to 95%). However, surgical treatment results in better functional outcomes when patients have >5 mm of superior GT displacement.
How long does it take for a greater tuberosity fracture to heal?
This injury normally takes 6-12 weeks to heal. Pain: Take pain killers as prescribed. You may find it easier to sleep propped up with pillows.
How long should a greater tuberosity fracture be in a sling?
Following surgery, a sling is an absolute requirement for 6 weeks. The goal of the sling is to allow for healing of both the bone and the rotator cuff tear. During this time finger, wrist and elbow motion may occur, but no motion at the shoulder. Following this, physical therapy can be started in an active fashion.
Where is the pain with greater tuberosity fracture?
Fracture of the Greater Tuberosity A person who falls with an outstretched arm may experience this fracture. Osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones that commonly occurs in the elderly, can increase a person’s risk for this type of fracture. Symptoms can include pain and swelling of the shoulder.
What does tuberosity mean?
: a rounded prominence especially : a large prominence on a bone usually serving for the attachment of muscles or ligaments.
How long do you have to wear a sling for a fractured shoulder?
For a fractured scapula, doctors usually recommend wearing a sling until you can move the shoulder without significant pain—anywhere from two to four weeks.
What is greater tuberosity fracture?
Fracture of the Greater Tuberosity This condition is a fracture of the bony bump that is located opposite of the head of the humerus. This type of fracture can interfere with the rotator cuff. Causes. Fractures of the greater tuberosity are often caused by direct trauma to the shoulder.
Where does a greater tuberosity fracture hurt?
Symptoms can include pain and swelling of the shoulder. The fracture may interfere with a person’s ability to move the shoulder. Treatment options depend on the severity of the fracture. If the bones have not moved out of position, the arm may be put in a sling.
How long does a greater tuberosity fracture take to heal?
You have sustained an un-displaced fracture to your greater tuberosity of your shoulder. The shoulder is a ball and socket joint you have fractured the outside of the ball part. This normally takes between 6-12 weeks to unite (heal).