Background: Proximal humerus fractures are seen frequently, particularly in older patients. The development of new osteosynthesis materials is being driven by the high complication rates following surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Plate osteosyntheses made of steel, titanium and, for several years now, carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) are used most frequently.
Methods: A prospective, randomized study was conducted in order to evaluate whether there are differences in the functional postoperative outcome when comparing CFR-PEEK and titanium implants for surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures. The primary outcome of shoulder functionality 1 year after surgery was measured with the DASH score, the Oxford Shoulder Score, and the Simple Shoulder Test.
Results: Bony consolidation of the respective fracture was confirmed in all the patients included in the study within the scope of postoperative follow-up care. No significant differences in the DASH score, Oxford Shoulder Score, or Simple Shoulder Test were observed 1 year post-operatively when comparing the implant materials CFR-PEEK and titanium.
Conclusions: There are no differences in terms of the functional outcome between CFR-PEEK plates and titanium implants 1 year after surgery. Studies on the long-term outcomes using CFR-PEEK plates in osteoporotic bone should be the subject of further research.
Keywords: PEEK; complications; postoperative outcomes; proximal humeral fracture.