The Non-Contact Bridging Plate.: A new fixed-angle device for the minimally-invasive treatment of fractures of the proximal humerus -: technique and preliminary results

Background. Fractures of the proximal humerus are common in elderly patients, especially in osteoporotic bone. Requirements for surgical treatment are high primary stability to allow early functional physiotherapy. The Non-Contact Bridging (NCB (R)) Plate for the proximal humerus (PH) is a new head locking system for treating fractures of the proximal humerus which allows minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Methods. In this contribution, the implant and technique are described, as well as the analysis of the first clinical results after 61 procedures. Results. In a mainly elderly patient population (mean: 73 years, range: 50-91 years) 61 minimally-invasive procedures were performed. The placement of screws led to a high primary stability. Primary implant failure occurred in one case (1.69%). The average constant score after 6 months was 62 points (age related mean 72). Conclusions. Using the MIS-technique, the NCB (R)-PH plate provides high primary stability, allowing functional treatment without postoperative limitations. The first clinical results show a good functional outcome in a mainly elderly patient population.