The parachute technique: Valgus impaction osteotomy for two-part fracturesof the surgical neck of the humerus

Fourteen elderly patients with a two-part fracture, in osteopenic bone, of the surgical neck of the humerus were treated with a valgus impaction osteo tomy and tension band fixation-that is, the parachute technique. Thirteen p atients were followed, and all were able to perform activities of daily liv ing without difficulty and were satisfied with the result of the surgery. T he average age of these thirteen patients was sixty-eight years, and the av erage duration of follow-up was 18.5 months. Union was achieved in all pati ents, at an average of 45.5 days. No patient demonstrated osteonecrosis of the humeral head. This technique of valgus impaction osteotomy with Dacron- tape tension band fixation leads to rapid union. Patient satisfaction and f unction were excellent.