Percutaneous compression plating versus short reconstruction nail for the treatment of intertrochanteric hip fractures

Abstract

Objective To compare the clinical results of percutaneous compression plating (PCCP)and Trigen short reconstruction intramedullary nail for intertrochanteric hip fractures. Methods During 2005 and 2008, the patients suffered with AO/OTA Al and A2 intertrochanteric hip fractures were divided into two groups; 36 fractures were treated with PCCP and 48 fractures with Trigen short reconstruction nail.During an average of (16.3±3.2) months follow-up, clinical evaluation involved visual analogue scale(VAS)score for pain in the 1st week, the 1st month, the 3rd month, the 6th month and the 12th month, and a Harris hip score one year post operation. Radiographs were examined for fracture healing-time, displacement scale of the neck screws and fracture impaction scale. All the complication in both groups was recorded. Results There were no difference in blood loss and operation time in both groups. The postoperative pain was significantly lower in the PCCP group in the initial three months after the surgery. Larger scale of fracture impaction and screw telescoping were seen in PCCP group. Also shorter healing time, higher Harris score results were achieved in PCCP group than those of Trigen short reconstruction nail group. Four peri-implant fractures occurred in Trigen short reconstruction nail group, which included one in the greater trochanter and three in the femoral shaft, but only one case need revision for bone displacement. In PCCP group, it was found that the superior neck screw was slightly displaced for tendency to cut-out in one patient. Conclusion Both PCCP and Trigen short reconstruction intramedullary nail can be successfully used to treat Al and A2 intertrochanteric hip fractures with minimal invasive technique. And the PCCP showed more rapid pain relief and bone healing, easily bony reduction and fewer complications. Key words: Femoral fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Treatment outcome