Fixation proximal humeral fractures with the Polarus nail

Thirty patients with fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by inte rnal fixation with an intramedullary locked nail. Fourteen of these patient s were more than 60 years of age; 23 patients had 2-part fractures (surgica l neck fractures) and were operated on within an average of 3 days after in jury. At follow-up, 20 (80%) of 25 patients showed satisfactory to excellen t functional outcomes, as measured by Constant score. All but I fracture pr ogressed to clinical and radiologic union. The good functional results indi cate that the Polarus nail is a satisfactory mechanical device that can be used in the treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in both the y oung and the elderly with osteopenic bone.