The Locking Proximal Humeral PHILOS Plates SS 316L are specialized orthopedic fixation implants designed for stabilization of appropriately selected proximal humerus fractures. The PHILOS-style anatomical plate configuration is designed to conform to the proximal humeral region while providing multiple screw fixation points for fracture stabilization.

Proximal humerus fractures can involve the humeral head, surgical neck, greater tuberosity, lesser tuberosity, or combinations of these regions. Fracture morphology can vary considerably, particularly in older patients with reduced bone quality. A dedicated proximal humerus locking plate provides a fixation option for fracture patterns requiring stable internal fixation and controlled support of the proximal humeral fragments.

The multi-angle locking configuration provides flexibility in the positioning of compatible locking screws. Multiple screw trajectories can allow the surgeon to target available bone and selected fracture fragments according to the anatomy and fracture configuration. The precise angular range and locking mechanism should be verified against the manufacturer’s technical specifications before clinical use.

The plates are available in 3-, 5-, 7-, 9-, and 11-hole configurations, providing a range of plate lengths and fixation options. Shorter plates can be selected for appropriate proximal fixation patterns where limited shaft fixation is required, while longer configurations may provide additional fixation points along the humeral shaft when indicated. Plate selection should be based on fracture morphology, patient anatomy, bone quality, and the surgeon’s planned fixation strategy.

The system uses compatible LCP locking screws. These screws engage threaded plate holes to establish an angular-stable relationship between the screw and plate. This can help maintain screw orientation and provide stable fixation in appropriately selected fracture constructs. Correct screw trajectory, length, and placement are particularly important around the proximal humerus because of the complex anatomy and proximity of the humeral head and surrounding soft tissues.

Manufactured from SS 316L stainless steel, the plates provide material characteristics commonly required for orthopedic implant applications, including corrosion resistance and mechanical durability. SS 316L is a low-carbon stainless steel widely used in medical devices. The exact implant-grade specification, mechanical properties, dimensions, and surface finish should be confirmed through the manufacturer’s documentation.

The anatomical design of a PHILOS-type plate is intended to provide coverage along the lateral proximal humerus while allowing multiple fixation points in the proximal fragment. Depending on the specific plate design, holes may be positioned to facilitate fixation of different regions of the proximal humerus. The surgeon should position the plate according to the manufacturer’s recommended technique and verify its relationship to the surrounding anatomy.

The included LCP screws provide the compatible fixation components required for the locking plate system. Screw lengths should be selected carefully to obtain appropriate purchase without unnecessary penetration beyond the intended bone. Imaging and intraoperative assessment may be used to confirm screw position and avoid unwanted intra-articular placement.

The different plate lengths provide flexibility for orthopedic trauma facilities, hospitals, fracture centers, and surgical implant suppliers. Maintaining multiple configurations can support treatment planning for different proximal humeral fracture patterns and patient anatomies.

The system may be considered for appropriately selected proximal humerus fractures, including certain displaced, unstable, comminuted, metaphyseal, and periarticular fracture patterns where plate fixation is clinically indicated. It is not intended to imply suitability for every proximal humerus fracture. The final fixation method should be determined by a qualified orthopedic surgeon following clinical examination and appropriate imaging.

Proper surgical technique is essential. Compatible drills, drill guides, depth gauges, screwdrivers, reduction instruments, and other plating instrumentation should be used according to the applicable surgical technique. Plate positioning should account for the proximal humeral anatomy, rotator cuff structures, fracture reduction, and intended screw trajectories.

The implants should be handled carefully to avoid contamination, scratches, deformation, or damage to the locking interfaces. Implant sterility and packaging requirements depend on the specific product configuration and manufacturer labeling. Reusable surgical instruments should be cleaned, inspected, packaged, and sterilized according to validated healthcare-facility procedures.

With 3–11 hole configurations, multi-angle locking capability, compatible LCP screws, anatomical proximal humerus design, and SS 316L construction, these PHILOS-style plates provide a versatile fixation option for appropriately selected proximal humerus fracture procedures.

Key Features

• Designed for proximal humerus fracture fixation.
• PHILOS-style anatomical proximal humeral plate configuration.
• Multi-angle locking design for flexible compatible screw positioning.
• Available in 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11-hole configurations.
• Compatible with specified LCP locking screws.
• Manufactured from SS 316L stainless steel.
• Multiple proximal fixation points support selected fracture fragments.
• Available plate lengths accommodate different fixation requirements.
• Designed for selected complex and unstable proximal humerus fractures.
• Suitable for professional orthopedic trauma applications.
• Provides angular-stable fixation when used with compatible locking screws.
• Requires compatible drilling, measuring, and screw insertion instrumentation.

Product Specifications

FAQs

1. What are PHILOS plates used for?

PHILOS-style plates are anatomical locking plates designed for fixation of appropriately selected proximal humerus fractures. They provide multiple fixation points around the proximal humerus and compatible locking screws can provide angular-stable fixation.

2. What does PHILOS mean?

PHILOS is commonly used to describe a proximal humeral locking plate concept designed specifically for proximal humerus fracture fixation. The exact design and specifications vary by manufacturer.

3. What hole configurations are available?

This system is available in 3-, 5-, 7-, 9-, and 11-hole configurations, providing different plate lengths and shaft fixation options.

4. What type of screws are used with these plates?

The product is specified for compatible LCP locking screws. Screw dimensions, lengths, thread design, and locking compatibility should be verified from the manufacturer’s technical documentation.

5. What material are these proximal humeral plates made from?

The plates are manufactured from SS 316L stainless steel, a low-carbon stainless steel commonly used in medical and orthopedic implant applications.

6. What is the advantage of a multi-angle locking plate?

A multi-angle locking plate can provide flexibility in compatible screw trajectory within the manufacturer’s permitted range. This may allow the surgeon to optimize screw placement according to fracture anatomy and available bone.

7. What fractures can a proximal humerus locking plate treat?

These plates may be considered for appropriately selected displaced, unstable, comminuted, metaphyseal, and periarticular proximal humerus fractures. Final implant selection depends on fracture morphology, bone quality, patient anatomy, and surgeon assessment.