Functional outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in Boileau class 1 and class 2 proximal humeral fracture sequelae: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Background: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is an increasingly popular salvage treatment option for proximal humeral fracture (PHF) sequelae. This meta-analysis aimed to conduct a pooled analysis of functional outcomes of RTSA in PHF sequelae, with subgroup analysis comparing between intracapsular (Class 1) and extracapsular (Class 2) PHF sequelae.

Methods: A multi-database search (PubMed, OVID, EMBASE) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines on 27th July 2020. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analysed.

Findings: Eleven studies were included, comprising 359 shoulders (167 Class 1 and 192 Class 2). The mean age was 68.2 years, and the mean time between injury and surgery was 49 months, (1-516 months). Constant score and forward flexion improved by 31.8 (95%CI: 30.5-33.1, p < 0.001) and 60o (95%CI: 58o-62o, p < 0.001) respectively between pre-operative and post-operative values for both groups. Constant scores were better in Class 1 patients (MD = 3.60, 95%CI: 1.0-6.2, p < 0.001) pre-operatively and post-operatively (MD = 7.4, 95%CI: 5.8-9.0, p < 0.001). Forward flexion was significantly better in Class 1 patients (MD = 13o, 95%CI: 7o-17o, p < 0.001) pre-operatively, but was slightly better in Class 2 patients post-operatively (MD = 7o, 95%CI: 4o-10o, p < 0.001). Overall complication rate was 16.8%.

Conclusion: Salvage RTSA is effective for PHF sequelae, with multiple factors contributing to the high complication rate.