Trauma Case Rep. 2025 Nov 17;60:101284. doi: 10.1016/j.tcr.2025.101284. eCollection 2025 Dec.

BACKGROUND: A malunited proximal humerus fracture treated unconventionally, not in line with the literature recommendations, achieved excellent functional results at 6 months of follow-up.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 14 year-old boy presented with an inability to raise his right arm above shoulder level and a deformity in the right shoulder. Following the X-ray and further investigations, the fracture shows angulation and displacement beyond the acceptable criteria. After consideration of the patient’s demands, analysis of the difficulties faced by the patient, and consideration of the surgical challenges, it was decided not to treat with Open Reduction Internal Fixation.

CONCLUSION: Despite the treatment not aligning with literature recommendations, the patient was able to achieve an excellent functional result. This malunited proximal humerus case highlights the importance of individualizing treatment for each patient and emphasizes the concept of ‘less is more’ in medicine.

PubMed:41333995 | PMC:PMC12666791 | DOI:10.1016/j.tcr.2025.101284