[Bundle nailing as an alternative treatment indication in pathologic fractures of the humerus]

In patients with multiple bone metastases of malignant tumors, bundle-nailing according to Hackethal is a fast and non-traumatic way of stabilizing existing or impending pathological fractures. It is also a therapeutic alternative in benign lesions, provided it is genuinely indicated and is performed correctly. Either as primary treatment following resection (sometimes with spongioplasty) or as secondary treatment, i.e. stabilization, it can be a valuable technique. Between 1976 and 1986 we performed 14 operations in our hospital using this technique. The tumor was malignant in 11 cases, benign in 3 and unclear in 1 case. The incidence of unfavorable results due to corrosion has been reduced recently, in particular since titanium has been used.