Proximal humerus malunions

Malunion of a proximal humerus fracture often is painful and debilitating. Operative management of this deformity is technically demanding and frequen tly results in a relatively high rate of complications. Reconstruction invo lves a spectrum of procedures including excision of bony prominences, tuber osity osteotomy and realignment, and shoulder arthroplasty. This article co vers the etiology, classification, diagnosis, and management of these compl ex injuries. A successfully performed reconstruction diminishes the patient 's pain and potentially increases function.