Proximal humeral fractures account for 5% of all fractures. Although the majority can be managednon-operatively, the optimal treatment of displaced or complex fractures remains controversial. Hemiarthroplastyis indicated for three and four-part proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients with poor bone stock andfractures in which internal fixation is difficult or unreliable. Hemiarthroplasty provides patients with reliable painrelief. However, funtional results are poor if anatomical repair of the tuberosities is not achieved. Reverse totalshoulder prosthesis provides more predictable functional outcomes in terms of abduction, anterior elevation andpain relief, but has a high rate of complications and its long-term results are unknown.

Proximal humeral fractures account for 5% of all fractures. Although the majority can be managednon-operatively, the optimal treatment of displaced or complex fractures remains controversial. Hemiarthroplastyis indicated for three and four-part proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients with poor bone stock andfractures in which internal fixation is difficult or unreliable. Hemiarthroplasty provides patients with reliable painrelief. However, funtional results are poor if anatomical repair of the tuberosities is not achieved. Reverse totalshoulder prosthesis provides more predictable functional outcomes in terms of abduction, anterior elevation andpain relief, but has a high rate of complications and its long-term results are unknown.