[Dislocation fractures of the proximal humerus--results following surgical treatment. A follow-up study of 167 cases].

167 patients with fracture dislocations of the proximal humerus--operated upon between 1970 and 1980--were followed up on an average 43.2 months after the accident. Fractures were classified according to Neer in two-part-(n = 24), three-part-(n = 60) and four-part-fractures (n = 61) as well as fractures of the articular surface (n = 21). 20.4% of all fractures were complicated by a neurological lesion. In 31% of all cases a good or excellent result was obtained. The functional result and the rate of avascular head necrosis were dependent on the type of fracture, that means the number of displaced parts. Results after 23 head prostheses were disappointing. The analysis of functional results and the rate of avascular head necrosis after different types of operation proved that minimal fixation with K-wire or tension-band was slightly superior to plate fixation.