[Tension band osteosynthesis with absorbable cords in proximal comminuted fractures of the humerus]

We reviewed 25 cases of comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus that were operatively treated from December 1984 to December 1988. Ten patients were treated by a Magerl operation modified by Marti using a metallic wire as a tension band. Twelve patients were operated on using a resorbable PDS (Polydioxanon) thread in the same manner. In this paper the PDS thread technique is described. The two groups are clinically and radiologically comparable. Using a PDS thread as a tension band has evident advantages: the relatively simple technique and the absence of implant removal.