[Avascular necrosis of the humeral head]

On the basis of observed cases the avascular necrosis of the head of the upper arm is discussed. After the lesion occurred on the proximal end of the humerus this late complication is not to be excluded. Besides the roentgenological signs, in the authors' opinion, the "free interval" in the patients' complaints may be of the greatest importance. The disturbance of the blood supply of the fractured piece of the upper arm may be responsible for the protracted recovery, in certain cases even for the lasting limitation of motion. No surgical treatment has been performed in the authors' cases.