Publication:

Study of management of subtrochanteric fractures of femur with reconstruction nail

Background Subtrochanteric fractures of femur are the fractures occurring from the inferior aspect of the lesser trochanter to 5 cm distally. They represent a challenge for surgeons due to the deforming forces acting on the region and the high rates of complications like non-union. This study evaluates the fixation of subtrochanteric fractures of femur with reconstruction nail which is a specialized antegrade intramedullary nail for femur.

Methods A prospective study conducted between October 2017 to May 2019 where 20 cases of subtrochanteric fractures of femur were treated with reconstruction nail and were followed up serially till 24 weeks radiologically and clinically.

Results The average time of union for patients was 5.15±1.14 months with 3 patients whose fractures didn’t unite where one went for frank non union, one had a refracture and one patient had reverse z effect. The functional outcome was excellent in 45% patients and good in 30% patients while poor in 3 (15%) patients.

Conclusions Reconstruction nail is a good device for subtrochanteric fractures of femur providing rigid fixation with low complication rates.