[Indications and technique of osteosynthesis in dislocated fractures of the humeral head in adults (author's transl)].

Fractures of the proximal end of the humerus are treated by early functional movement. Dislocated fractures of the humeral head should be treated by means of osteosynthesis. In younger patients osteosynthesis with a T- or L-shaped plate is the method of choice; in older patients, open reduction and K-wire fixations can be used. Indications for screw osteosynthesis are rare, and alloarthroplasty is a procedure reserved for exceptions. The functional results are demonstrated by 24 cases with dislocated fractures who were operated on, thus showing the principles of operative treatment.