Functional and Radiological Outcome of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fracture in Old Age Treated with Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation-2

Abstract

Introduction: Intertrochanteric fractures are prevalent in the elderly, which leave patients with functional restrictions. Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation-2 (PFNA) was developed to achieve better fixation strength, particularly in the presence of osteoporotic unstable intertrochanteric fractures. Aim: To evaluate the role and result of PFNA-2 in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in geriatric patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective analytical study was conducted in 35 patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures. They were followed-up clinically and radiologically for one year. The quality of fixation was assessed, by neck-shaft angle and Tip Apex Distance (TAD). A functional assessment was done with the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results: The mean follow-up period was 13 months (range, 12-14). The mean age of patients was 65.6 years and the majority were female patients (62.85%). Functional results according to modified HHS were found to be excellent in 6 (17.1%) patients, good in 14 (40%) patients, fair in 12 (34.3%) patients and poor in 3 (8.6%) patients. The average HHS in this study was 81.6. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Conclusion: PFNA-2 helps in achieving biological reduction and good stability which enables early mobilisation and prevention of excessive collapse. A good functional outcome could be achieved when the radiological parameters are restored, i.e., TAD <25 mm and neck-shaft angle difference <5° (compared to the opposite side).