[Results of conservatively treated upper arm fractures in adults (author's transl)].

Between 1975 and 1979 93 upper arm fractures were treated: 79 by hanging cast, 14 by surgery. The indications for operation were second or third degree compound fractures, vessel or nerve lesions, serial fractures in both arms and for easier nursing of the aged and polytraumatised. Out of 79 conservatively treated patients 12 required secondary surgery after 8 weeks due to prolonged fracture healing. 62 (93%) out of 67 fractures treated solely by hanging cast showed very good and good results 1-5 years after the accident--transverse fractures included--and only 5 (7%) poor results.