Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients: A Narrative Review

Proximal humerus fractures represent a significant healthcare burden in the elderly population. These injuries are the third most common fragility fractures, after hip and distal radius fractures. The management of proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients is controversial. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical interventions. The choice depends on multiple factors, including fracture pattern, bone quality, patient functional demands, and comorbidities. This narrative review examines the current evidence regarding both conservative and operative management strategies for proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients. We discuss the classification systems, treatment algorithms, outcomes, and complications. The goal of this review is to provide clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of management options to optimize patient outcomes.