Objective: To investigate the relationship of the greater tuberosity and the lateral fin of the prosthesis by using cadaveric research.
Methods: Nine pairs of fresh-frozen upper extremity specimens (n = 18) were collected. Two-part anatomical neck fracture models were created by osteotomy along the anatomical neck. A standardized humeral head replacement procedure was carried out. The prosthesis was implanted in 20 degrees and 40 degrees of retroversion respectively, and the distance between the bicipital groove and lateral fin of the prosthesis was measured.
Results: The lateral fins of prostheses in all specimens were located behind the bicipital groove. The average distances were 7.3 mm in 20 degrees retroversion and 4.0 mm in 40 degrees retroversion.
Conclusion: It is better to fix the greater tuberosity over the lateral fin during humeral head replacement.