Treatment of acute proximal humerus fractures with a polarus nail

J Surg Orthop Adv. 2009 Spring;18(1):28-34.

Abstract

Fourteen patients with acute displaced proximal humerus fractures were treated with a proximal locked antegrade humeral intramedullary nail (Polarus nail). These patients were treated by one surgeon and records were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical outcome measurements included active elevation and external rotation; a functional outcome measure, the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI); and complications. Radiographic outcome measures were union, alignment, and presence of avascular necrosis. All 14 fractures went on to clinical and radiographic union. Mean time to union was 4 months (range, 2-9 months). Four patients had postoperative complications. Mean SPADI score was 30 (good) (range, 4-67). There were no cases of postoperative avascular necrosis, and the average radiologic neck/shaft angle was 121 degrees (range 90 degrees -144 degrees ). The proximal locked antegrade humeral intramedullary nail used in the treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures results in predictable union and good alignment and function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Bone Nails*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / instrumentation*
  • Fracture Healing*
  • Humans
  • Humeral Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Humeral Fractures / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Recovery of Function
  • Young Adult