Evolving concept in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures and development of internal fixation devices

Abstract

To summarize the evolving concept in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures and the development of internal fixation devices. Related literature concerning the implant devices to treat intertrochanteric fractures was reviewed and analyzed in terms of the biomechanical characteristics, clinical application, and complications. The treatment of intertrochanteric fractures has undergone an evolving concept from conservative treatment to surgical treatment. Surgery strategies include extramedullary fixation and intramedullary fixation. Intramedullary fixation has gradually become the main treatment of intertrochanteric fractures due to its minimally invasive and biomechanical advantages. However, the current intramedullary fixation system still can not reconstruct the medial cortical support of the proximal femur, which leads to some failures in the treatment of unstable fractures. The development of internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures is based on the deep understanding and biomechanical theory of intertrochanteric fractures in clinical practice. In the future, the updated design of internal fixation devices will depend on the treatment principle of reconstruction of medial support and secondary stabilization of intertrochanteric fractures, and finally the purpose of improving success rate and reducing postoperative complications of intertrochanteric fracture will achieved.