Fixation of proximal humeral fractures with the Polarus nail

Thirty patients with fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by internal fixation with an intramedullary locked nail. Fourteen of these patients were more than 60 years of age; 23 patients had 2-part fractures (surgical neck fractures) and were operated on within an average of 3 days after injury. At follow-up, 20 (80%) of 25 patients showed satisfactory to excellent functional outcomes, as measured by Constant score. All but 1 fracture progressed to clinical and radiologic union. The good functional results indicate that the Polarus nail is a satisfactory mechanical device that can be used in the treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in both the young and the elderly with osteopenic bone. (J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2001;10:7-10.)