Surgical treatment of malignant secondary tumors of the humerus: report of 45 cases.

Data from a series of 45 internal fixations for malignant secondary tumors of the humerus are analyzed. The tumors occurred late in the evolution of the cancer, and represented 24% of appendicular bone metastases for which operations were performed. Statistics of the patients, fractures, treatment, and results are presented and conclusions drawn. Prognosis should be related to the types of primary tumor. Blind nailing or pinning is recommended, and indications for preventive osteosynthesis are discussed.