Isolated fractures of the greater tuberosity of the proximal humerus

Background and purpose The diagnosis and treatment of isolated greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus is not clear-cut. We retrospectively assessed the clinical and radiographic outcome of isolated greater tuberosity fractures. Patients and methods 30 patients (mean age 58 (26–85) years, 19 women) with 30 closed isolated greater tuberosity fractures were reassessed after an average follow-up time of 3 years with DASH score and Constant score. Radiographic outcome was assessed on standard plain radiographs. Results 14 of 17 patients with undisplaced or slightly displaced fractures (≤ 5 mm) were treated nonoperatively and had good clinical outcome (mean DASH score of 13, mean Co…