[Dislocated proximal humerus fracture--results after stabilization with a double plate].

Between October 1995 und December 1997, 57 patients with displaced 2-, 3- and 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with two one-third tubular plates which were applied to the anterior and lateral aspect of the proximal humerus. For the follow-up evaluation shoulder function was assessed in 38 patients after an average of 16.8 +/- 4.2 months using the Constant-score: 32% of the patients showed excellent, 37% good, 21% satisfactory, and 10% unsatisfactory results. The high stability of this technique allows intensive physiotherapy in the early post-operative period and early reintegration in activities of daily living.