• BACKGROUND
    • The incidence of proximal humerus fractures is rising, with increasing use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). This study analyzed treatment trends, readmission rates, and causes of readmission.
  • METHODS
    • The Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) was queried for admissions with a primary diagnosis of proximal humerus fracture in the U.S. (2016-2021) using ICD-10 codes. Patient demographics, comorbidities, facility characteristics, and 30-/90-day readmission rates were analyzed. Treatments included non-operative (Non-Op), hemiarthroplasty (HA), anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA), rTSA, open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), and intramedullary nailing (IMN).
  • RESULTS
    • Among 218,425 admissions, rTSA use increased (20.27 % to 22.30 %), while ORIF decreased (20.77 % to 14.86 %). Non-Op had the highest readmission rates at 30- and 31-90 days (10.5 % and 8.9 %), even after adjusting for age/comorbidities. rTSA had the lowest readmission rates (5.9 % and 4.6 %), with instability being the most common cause.
  • CONCLUSION
    • There is a trend towards increased rTSA utilization for treating proximal humerus fractures. The readmission rate following rTSA was the lowest of all treatment modalities, including non-operative management.
  • LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
    • Level III Retrospective Cohort Comparison Using Large Database Prognosis Study.