"The risk of humeral fracture is increased in revision surgery, by falls and when the humeral component fixation results in an abrupt transition between a cemented or press fit diaphyseal stem tip and osteopenic bone distal to the prosthetic tip These fractures deserve a trial at closed management."
I believe what the author is saying is that when the surgeon goes back in a second time, revision surgery, the risk of fracturing the existing humerus is high. Also, a fall, as my surgeon has advised against :), can result in a break like this. And finally, an abrupt transition between the titanium shaft and the real bone is at risk if the bone shows osteopenic issues.
Obviously a fall is the easiest to understand and the most difficult to avoid. Since my initial injury was due to a fall I am absolutely paranoid about falling again. One day, feeling a little unsteady, I almost bought a walker at a garage sale! Me, a walker? Never! Unless it would save me from another disastrous fall. When I walk for exercise, as I have for several years now, I use two European style hiking poles. The good reason? It increases the cardio- vascular workout and is good for toning your arms. The real reason? It adds stability which I am grateful for.
And if I encounter an angry raccoon I am armed!
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