Complex Shoulder Fracture Care in Surat

Comprehensive management of complex shoulder fractures

Our trauma service manages complex fractures of the proximal humerus, clavicle and scapula. Treatment ranges from anatomical internal fixation to acute hemiarthroplasty or reverse shoulder replacement for highly comminuted fractures, particularly in older patients. Rapid assessment and careful surgical planning aim to restore alignment, stability and function.

Rapid assessment & decision-making

Early triage combines clinical evaluation, neurovascular assessment and targeted imaging to determine fracture pattern, bone quality and soft-tissue condition. This early pathway ensures timely surgical planning and reduces secondary complications.

✓ Advanced radiographs including trauma series
✓ CT scans for fragment mapping and 3D planning
✓ Neurovascular and skin integrity assessment

Treatment options — fixation to arthroplasty

Management is individualised according to fracture configuration, patient age, bone quality and functional demand. Our team uses modern fixation implants and, when necessary, arthroplasty techniques to optimise outcomes.

Fixation strategies

✓ Locking plate fixation for displaced proximal humerus fractures
✓ Intramedullary nailing for selected humeral shaft and proximal fractures
✓ Clavicle fracture fixation with precontoured plates and cortical implants
✓ ORIF for scapular fractures when indicated

Arthroplasty options

✓ Acute hemiarthroplasty for head-splitting fractures in selected patients
✓ Reverse shoulder replacement for highly comminuted fractures or poor rotator cuff function
✓ Bone grafting and augments where bone loss exists

Preoperative planning & technique

Detailed preoperative planning using CT reconstructions, templating and when appropriate patient-specific guides helps select the optimal implant and fixation strategy. Operating with meticulous soft-tissue handling and stable fixation promotes early mobilisation and reduces complications.

✓ 3D CT planning for complex fragment patterns
✓ Templating for hemiarthroplasty and reverse arthroplasty
✓ Multidisciplinary input for frail or polytrauma patients

Rehabilitation & expected recovery

Rehabilitation is tailored to fixation stability and procedure type. Early passive range-of-motion progressing to active strengthening preserves shoulder mobility while protecting repair and fixation.

1 0–2 weeks: sling protection, pain control and gentle hand/neck exercises
2 2–6 weeks: guided passive then active-assisted ROM as permitted
3 6–12 weeks: progressive strengthening and scapular control
4 3–6 months: advancing function, return to heavier tasks as advised

Outcomes, risks & follow-up

With appropriate fixation or arthroplasty and committed rehabilitation, many patients regain functional range and pain relief. Possible complications include implant failure, non-union, infection, stiffness and neurovascular injury; rapid assessment and tailored care reduce these risks.

Frequently asked questions — Complex shoulder fracture care

When is reverse shoulder replacement preferred for a fracture?

Reverse replacement is preferred for highly comminuted proximal humerus fractures in older patients with poor rotator cuff function or when fixation is unlikely to restore reliable anatomy.

How soon after fixation can I start moving my shoulder?

Early passive motion is often started within 1–2 weeks depending on stability. Progression to active and resisted exercises depends on fracture healing and the surgeon's protocol.

What imaging is used for complex fracture planning?

Plain radiographs are the first step; CT scans with 3D reconstruction are frequently used to map fragments and plan fixation or prosthesis choice.

Discuss complex fracture management with Dr. Krunal Donda — emergency or planned trauma referral.

Contact on WhatsApp — +91 98790 99184