Treatment of subtrochanteric femoral fracture with long proximal femoral nail antirotation

Abstract

Objective Subtrochanteric femoral fractures are severe injuries. Although many treatment methods have been developed, controversy exists regarding the optimal management of these fractures. This study evaluated the clinical outcome of subtrochanteric femoral fractures fixed with long proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA-long). Methods Between October 2006 and February 2008, 25 patients with traumatic subtrochanteric fractures of the femur were treated with PFNA-long. Closed reduction and fixation were performed in 20 cases. In the remaining 5 cases, closed reduction was difficult, so limited open reduction was performed, with bone grafting in 4 cases and circumferential wiring in 4 cases. Results The average follow-up time was 16.1 months. All subtrochanteric femoral fractures healed uneventfully except one case of delayed union. The mean union time was 26.2 weeks. Technical difficulties with nail insertion were encountered in 3 cases. No implant failure was observed. Conclusion PFNA-long is effective in treatment of subtrochanteric femoral fractures, with a high rate of bone union, minor soft tissue damage, early return to functional exercise and few implant-related complications.