Open AccessThe treatment of established non-union of the proximal humerus using the Polarus locking intramedullary nail
Author(s) -
Steven W. Hamilton,
Kevin S Baird
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
international journal of shoulder surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 0973-6042
DOI - 10.4103/0973-6042.59970
Subject(s) - medicine , intramedullary rod , surgery , humerus , iliac crest , fixation (population genetics) , nail (fastener) , radiography , population , materials science , environmental health , metallurgy
Non-union following fracture of the proximal humerus is not uncommon, particularly in the elderly. This can be associated with significant morbidity due to pain, instability and functional impairment. The Polarus device (Acumed) is a locked, antegrade intramedullary nail designed to stabilize displaced 2-, 3- and 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus. We report our experience with the Polarus nail for the treatment of established non-union of the proximal humerus.