Outcome Analysis in Ipsilateral Proximal Femur and Shaft Fractures Treated by Intramedullary Nail and Plate Combinations: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Ipsilateral neck and shaft fractures of femur are not common. They result from high-energy trauma mechanisms, including motor vehicle traffic accidents and falls from heights. Surgical stabilization of such fractures remains a challenge. This study was planned to compare reconstruction-type intramedullary nailing and various plate combinations on the fracture healing and functional outcome in patients with these fractures. Aim: The aim was to study and compare the clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes of ipsilateral proximal femur and femoral shaft fractures treated by two methods nailing/plating. Subjects and Methods: We included 20 patients admitted from March 2020 to September 2020 to assess the clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes of ipsilateral proximal femur fractures associated with femoral shaft fractures, treated either by intramedullary nailing or by various plate combinations at the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Thiruvarur Medical College and Hospital, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu. Statistical Analysis Used: Continuous variables were summarized as mean and standard deviation, and the significance between their mean variables was analyzed using t-test. Results: We found that ipsilateral proximal femur and femoral shaft fractures are common in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th decades of life. There was a statistical significance in mean duration of surgery in nailing group 140.00 ± 24 compared with plating group 158.00 ± 18.7. In terms of average union time for proximal femur and femoral shaft fractures, age of the patient, delay in duration of surgery, and outcome results of both groups were similar and showed no statistical significance. Conclusion: Both treatment methods achieve satisfactory functional outcomes in patients with ipsilateral proximal femur and shaft fractures.