Fractures of the proximal humerus constitute 4-5% of all skeletal fractures. Although most proximal humerus fractures respond satisfactorily to conservative treatment, we can not expect good result without appropriate treatment. Thus according to the fracture type, the appropriate treatment must be achieved. Sixty six cases of fractures of the proximal humerus which were treated at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine from January 1986 to December 1990 were analyzed both clinically and radiologically and the following results were obtained. l. Among the 66 patients, 47 patients (71.2%) were treated conservatively. 38 patients (82.6%) of one-part and two-part fractures were treated conservatively, and 11 patients (55.0%) of three-part and four-part fractures were treated operatively. 2. Using the Neer's assessment, 46 patients (69.7%) had excellent or satisfactory results. 35 patients (76.1%) had excellent or satisfactory results in one-part and two-part fracture, but 9 patients (45.0%) had unsatisfactory or failed results in three-part and four-part fracture. 3. In two-part fractures. 19 patients (69.7%) who were treated conservatively and 7 patients (87.5%) who were treated operatively had excellent or satisfactory results. Thus both conservative and operative treatment yield nearly same result. In three-part fracture, 4 patients (50.0%) who were treated conservatively and 6 patients (85.7%) who were treated operatively had excellent or satisfactory results. Thus operative treatment yield more satisfactory results than conservative treatment. 4. Total cases with complications were 12 cases (18.2%). The most common complication was joint stiffness and others were infection of pin site, nonunion, and nerve injury.