Gamma Nail Research Articles

Gamma nail versus Prixomal femur Locked plate in treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures: one year follow-up, final radiological and clinical outcomes

Gamma nail versus Prixomal femur Locked plate in treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures: one year follow-up, final radiological and clinical outcomes

Single-centre results of a randomised controlled trial comparing the Gamma3 nail and a sliding hip screw to treat AO type 31-A1 and 31-A2 trochanteric fractures.

The primary goal of this randomised controlled trial was to investigate whether there are differences in the outcome between the Gamma3 nail and a sliding hip screw (SHS) regarding quality of life 1 year after surgery. In a controlled randomised trial, we compared the Gamma3 nail (Stryker) and a SHS(Omega, Stryker) in the treatment of 193 patients with pertrochanteric fractures. The follow-up period was 12 months. The outcomes included the surgical duration, health-related quality of life measured with the EQ-5D Index and a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the living situation and use of walking aid before trauma and 52 weeks after surgery; the Parker Mobility Score; the Harris Hip Score; and the revision, complication and mortality rates. The Gamma3 group had a significantly shorter surgical duration than the SHS group (p < 0.0001). Implant-related complications were significantly lower in the Gamma3 group (p > 0.05). The revision rate was significantly lower in the Gamma3 group based on intention-to-treat (p = 0.0336) as well as as-treated (p = 0.0302) analyses. Otherwise, we did not find significant difference between the two groups regarding the EQ-5D Index and VAS scores, the Parker Mobility Score, the Harris Hip Score, the mortality rate, the use of walking aids and the living situation. There were no detectable differences between the groups in terms of quality of life and clinical scores 12 months after surgery. The surgical duration and revision rate were superior for the Gamma3 group.

Treatment outcomes of concomitant ipsilateral neck and trochanteric fractures using Gamma3 nails with U-blade lag screws.

This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of Gamma3 nails fitted with U-blade lag screws in the management of combined neck and trochanter fracture of the femur. Two hundred-fifty patients with fractures in the proximal femur underwent treatment using Gamma3 nails integrated with U-blade lag screws from 2015 to 2022. Among these cases, 33 had combined neck and trochanteric fractures; 8 patients were excluded because of follow-up for <1 year. The remaining data of 25 patients (7 males and 18 females) were reviewed. Bone mineral density (BMD), body mass index (BMI), tip-apex distance (TAD), extent of lag screw migration, femoral neck-shaft angle, callus formation, fracture type, and treatment failure were analyzed. The mean patient age was 76.3 (range, 61-91) years, and the mean follow-up duration was 17.3 (range, 12.5-57.3) months. The mean BMD T-scores for the spine and femoral neck were -2.3 ± 1.0 and -2.8 ± 0.7, respectively; 18 patients had T-scores ≤-2.5, indicating osteoporosis. The mean BMI was 23.2 ± 3.8 kg/m2 , and the mean operative time was 69.8 (range, 45-90) minutes. Twenty-one patients experienced injuries from slipping, 2 sustained injuries from falling, and 2 from car traffic accidents. The mean TAD was 21.6 ± 5.9 mm, with 16 patients showing <25 mm. The mean extent of lag screw migration was 5.7 ± 5.1 mm. The mean femoral neck-shaft angle on plain radiographs was 125.1 ± 8.6 degrees immediately postoperatively and 120.3 ± 9.5 degrees at the final follow-up. During the follow-up period, the first callus formation was observed at 3.8 months (range, 1.4-7.3) on plain radiographs in the anteroposterior and axial views. Based on our fracture criteria, 4 patients had a two-part fracture type, 12 patients had three-part, and 9 patients had four-part. Out of 25 patients, 3 exhibited treatment failure. No significant differences were observed between the groups with and without bone union regarding age, BMD, BMI, operative time, TAD of the lag screw, extent of lag screw migration, and femoral neck-shaft angle. The bone union was achieved in 88% of patients who underwent treatment utilizing the U-blade Gamma3 nail for concomitant ipsilateral neck and trochanteric fractures. Level IV, Therapeutic Study.

Rotationally stable screw anchor (RoSA) vs. Gamma3 Nail (G3N) in pertrochanteric femoral fractures : Afunctional outcome analysis

The pertrochanteric femoral fracture (PFF) represents one of the most common fracture types throughout Germany. To enable early mobilization of patients, the primary surgical goal is load-stable osteosynthesis. Implant failure still represents the largest group of implant-related complications (>80%). The aim of the study was to document and analyze the influence of the implant on the functional outcome and an evaluation of the rotationally stable screw anchor (RoSA) vs. Gamma3 nail. In aretrospective study 43patients with PFF (AO 31A1-A3) were included in the study. The influence of the implant on the functional outcome was assessed by 2standardized questionnaires (SF-36, NMS (New Mobility Score)) and analyzed in aretrospective evaluation. In the study no significant differences in functional outcome scores ≥ 1year after osteosynthesis of the PFF could be shown depending on the implant used. There is an overall tendency for abetter outcome in the G3N group. In the literature the superiority of intramedullary nailing over extramedullary implants is continually discussed. Implant failure is still the most frequent complication. In intramedullary implants, such as the G3N, the primary cause is failure of the head-neck component. For conventional extramedullary implants the biomechanical properties on the femoral shaft also pose a challenge in the case of unstable PFF. The further development of the RoSA to an intramedullary implant could combine the advantages of intramedullary load carriers with the advantages of the blade-screw combination in the head-neck fragment and lead to a reduction in implant-associated complications.

Design innovation and rationale of the intramedullary implants for treating Intertrochanteric fractures: A review

Intertrochanteric fracture management require effective management strategies for early return to function and minimise complications. Intramedullary devices like proximal femoral nail have an biomechanical advantage, particularly in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. Such unstable injury patterns not only require precise reduction technique, but also right implant design to minimise the complications. Novel concepts of reduction like medial cortical support classification and antero-posterior reduction (Subtype classification system) refine the reduction strategies. Despite reporting of the reduction analysis, there has been continuing number of implant failures following proximal femoral nail implantation. Complications like ‘Z’ effect and reverse ‘Z’ effect are very well reported with the 2 screw Recon - Proximal femur nails. Analysis of failure and complications have constantly upgraded the designs of proximal femur nails. Design of the new generation intramedullary implants for treatment of intertrochanteric fractures like Gamma nail, PFNA-II (Proximal Femoral Nail Anterotation), Zimmer Natural Nail, Trigen Intertan nail and TFN – Advanced (Trochanteric Femoral Nail Advanced) are described in this review. While the new implant designs offer advancements, fundamental principles of reduction remains crucial for successful outcomes. Design rationale and instrumentation of each implant must be known at the time of application along with techniques of maintaining the reduction for a successful outcome.

COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN THE FAILURE RATES OF THE TROCHANTERIC FIXATION NAIL-ADVANCED (TFNA) AND GAMMA NAILS IN PROXIMAL FEMUR FRACTURE FIXATION

Hip fractures frequently occur in elderly patients with osteoporosis and are rapidly increasing in prevalence owing to an increase in the elderly population and social activities. We experienced several recent presentations of TFNA nails failed through proximal locking aperture which requires significant revision surgery in often highly co-morbid patient population.The study was done by retrospective data collection from 2013 to 2023 of all the hip fractures which had been fixed with Cephalomedullary nails to review and compare Gamma (2013–2017) and TFNA (2017–2023) failure rates and the timing of the failures. Infected and Elective revision to Arthroplasty cases were excluded.The results are 1034 cases had been included, 784 fixed with TFNA and 250 cases fixed Gamma nails. Out of the 784 patients fixed with TFNA, 19 fixation failed (2.45%). Out of the 250 cases fixed with Gamma nails, 15 fixation failed (6%). Mean days for fixation failure were 323 and 244 days in TFNA and Gamma nails respectively.We conclude that TFNA showed remarkable less failure rates if compared to Gamma nails. At point of launch, testing was limited and no proof of superiority of TFNA over Gamma nail. Several failures identified with proximal locking aperture in TFNA which can be related to the new design which had Substantial reduction in lateral thickness at compression screw aperture.

CEPHALOMEDULLARY NAILING FOR SUBTROCHANTERIC FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES: A COMPARISON OF SINGLE LAG SCREW DEVICE WITH AN INTERCALATED DUAL SCREW DEVICE

Subtrochanteric femoral fractures are a subset of hip fractures generally treated with cephalomedullary nail fixation\[1\]. Single lag screw devices are most commonly-used, but integrated dual screw constructs have become increasingly popular\[2,3\]. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of fixation of subtrochanteric femoral fractures using a single lag screw (Gamma3 nail, GN) with a dual screw device (InterTAN nail, IN). The primary outcome was mechanical failure, defined as lag screw cut-out, back-out, nail breakage or peri-implant fracture.Consecutive adult patients (18yrs) with subtrochanteric femoral fracture treated in a single centre were retrospectively identified using electronic records. Patients that underwent surgical fixation using either a long GN (2010–2017) or IN (2017–2022) were included. Medical records and radiographs were reviewed to identify complications of fixation. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the risk of mechanical failure and secondary outcomes by implant design. Multivariable regression models were used to identify predictors of mechanical failure.The study included 622 patients, 354 in the GN group (median age 82yrs, 72% female) and 268 in the IN group (median age 82yrs, 69% female). The risk of any mechanical failure was increased two-fold in the GN group (HR 2.44 \[95%CI 1.13 to 5.26\]; _p=0.024_). Mechanical failure comprising screw cut-out (_p=0.032_), back-out (_p=0.032_) and nail breakage (_p=0.26_) was only observed in the GN group. Technical predictors of failure included varus &gt;5° for cut-out (OR 19.98 \[2.06 to 193.88\]; _p=0.01_), TAD;25mm for back-out (8.96 \[1.36 to 58.86\]; p=0.022) and shortening 1cm for peri-implant fracture (7.81 \[2.92 to 20.91\]; _p=&lt;0.001_).Our results demonstrate that an intercalated screw construct is associated with a lower risk of mechanical failure compared with the a single lag screw device. Intercalated screw designs may reduce the risk of mechanical complications for patients with subtrochanteric femoral fractures.

Nailing intertrochanteric fractures in geriatric population: Do we know it all?

Introduction and objectivesPertrochanteric fractures constitute an important part of the daily activity of the orthopedic surgeon. The aim of this study was to carry out an analysis of pre-, intra- and post-operative radiographic parameters and to analyze the results of stable and unstable intertrochanteric fractures treated with short nails with dynamic distal locking. Materials and methodsRetrospective study in our center, between the years 2017–2021 of patients over 65 years of age with pertrochanteric fracture. We included 272 patients treated with Gamma3 Nail (Stryker®) with dynamic distal locking. As variables, we recorded: age, medical comorbidities, fracture pattern according to AO/OTA, osteopenia according to Singh's classification, pre-operative (such as diaphyseal extension), intra-operative (such as tip-to-the-apex or medial cortical support) and post-operative radiographic parameters (such as time to consolidation or loss of reduction), pre- and post-operative Barthel, quality of life and complications and reinterventions, such as non-union or cut-out. ResultsThe mean age was 83.28 years (65–102). Two hundred four cases were women (75%). The average follow-up was 18.2 months (12–24). The distribution according to AO/OTA classification was 85.7% 31.A1; 12.5% 31.A2; 1.9% 31.A3. Radiographic consolidation was obtained in 97.4% of cases. Tip to apex distance was less than 25mm in 95.6% of cases. Medial cortical support was positive or neutral in 88.6% of cases. Sixty cases (22.1%) of screw back-out were recorded. Eight reinterventions (2.9%) were performed, corresponding to three cut-outs (1.1%), three non-unions (1.1%), one avascular necrosis (0.4%) and one secondary hip osteoarthritis (0.4%). ConclusionsShort nail with dynamic distal locking offers good clinical, radiological and functional results in all types of AO/OTA patterns, without increasing the complication rate, as long as there is an appropriate tip-to-the-apex distance and good medial cortical support.

Unstable trochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral nail show functional outcomes independent of the fracture type

Background: The proximal femoral nail has replaced the sliding hip screw devices and gamma nails as the implant of choice for unstable trochanteric fracture (AO 31A2-A3). In our study we aimed to find a correlation between fracture type, time taken for radiographic union and their functional outcome according to Harris Hip score at 6 months after PFN fixation of such fractures. Methods: We assessed 38 patients sustaining unstable (AO 31A2-A3) trochanteric fractures. All the fractures were treated with short PFN. Functional outcome was assessed according to the HHS at sixth month follow-up. Results: No statistically significant association was found between HHS with fracture type (p=0.184) and bone union time (p=0.587). The association between bone union time and fracture type was found to be statistically significant (p=0.007). Conclusions: Functional outcome (HHS) does not depend upon the fracture type.

Migration of the Gamma Nail Neck Screw into the Pelvis with Bladder Damage.

Medial migration of the cervical screw is a frequent complication of Gamma nails and is observed in 4.3% - 6% of cases. The reasons are a violation of the surgical technique of osteosynthesis of a trochanter fracture, including an unrepaired fracture, a breach of the insertion point of the fixator, and a suboptimal position of the cervical screw. However, the migration of the Gamma nail neck screw into the pelvic cavity is sporadic, and only a few cases have been published in the literature. This is the case of a patient born in 1952 who was admitted to the hospital with pain syndrome in the pelvis and dysuric phenomena. As a result of clinical X-ray examination, CT, and MRT examination of the pelvis, medial migration of the Gamma nail cervical screw with damage to the bladder was revealed. The patient was urgently operated on the day of admission. The cervical screw from the bladder was removed, the bladder was sutured, and an epicystostomy was installed. The Gamma nail from the right femur was also released. There were no intraoperative complications. In the postoperative period, the patient was prescribed antibiotics and analgesics. The duration of hospitalization was six days. Being examined for five weeks after the operation, the patient does not make any particular complaints, walks without means of support, and the intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur fused incorrectly. The patient was offered an endoprosthesis of the right hip joint, but he and his relatives refused. The traumatologist should be aware of the possibility of such complications after osteosynthesis and its associated risks. They should be able to recognize the etiological factors causing the medial migration of the cervical screw of the intramedullary retainer. If medial screw migration is detected, the traumatologist should assess the function of internal organs and the condition of the main vessels and take measures to safely remove the migrated fixator from the anatomical cavity of the body in one team with a surgeon, urologist and vascular surgeon.

Efficacy and Outcomes of Gamma Nail Versus Proximal Femoral Nail in the Treatment of Stable Extracapsular Fractures of the Proximal Femur: A Comparative Study

Background: Stable extracapsular fractures of the proximal femur are a common and challenging injury in the elderly, with Gamma Nail and Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) being the primary surgical options. This study aims to compare the efficacy and outcomes of these two methods.&#x0D; Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients with stable extracapsular fractures, randomly assigned to undergo CRIF with either Gamma Nail or PFN. Parameters such as operation time, blood loss, radiological outcomes, and postoperative recovery were analyzed.&#x0D; Results: The Gamma Nail group experienced shorter operation times (33±6.5 min) and less blood loss (28.08±32.80 ml) compared to the PFN group. Radiological outcomes showed no significant difference between the groups, with high success rates in achieving stable fixation. Both methods demonstrated effectiveness in managing these fractures, but Gamma Nail offered some technical advantages.&#x0D; Conclusion: Gamma Nail and PFN are both effective for treating stable extracapsular fractures of the proximal femur, with the choice of technique depending on various patient-specific factors.&#x0D; Keywords: Extracapsular fractures, proximal femur, Gamma Nail, Proximal Femoral Nail, orthopedic surgery, elderly.&#x0D;

Impact of Patient Demographics and Injury Patterns on the Choice and Success of Proximal Femur Fracture Surgeries

Background: Understanding the influence of patient demographics and injury patterns on the choice and success of surgical interventions for stable extracapsular fractures of the proximal femur is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes.&#x0D; Methods: This comparative study analyzed 50 patients undergoing CRIF with either Gamma Nail or PFN, focusing on how demographics, injury patterns, and socio-economic status impacted surgical choice and outcomes.&#x0D; Results: No significant differences were observed in age and socio-economic status between the two groups. Gender distribution and the mode of injury showed slight variations but did not substantially influence the surgical choice. Both Gamma Nail and PFN were utilized across a diverse patient population, suggesting the need for individualized surgical planning.&#x0D; Conclusion: The choice of surgical technique for treating stable extracapsular fractures of the proximal femur is multifaceted, influenced by a combination of technical, demographic, and injury-related factors.&#x0D; Keywords: Extracapsular fractures, proximal femur, Gamma Nail, Proximal Femoral Nail, patient demographics, injury patterns.

Forces required to dynamize sliding screws in gamma nail and selfdynamizable internal fixator.

Single limb support phase of the gait-cycle in patients who are treated for a pertrochanteric fracture is characterized by transversal loads acting on the lag screw, tending to block its dynamization. If the simultaneous axial force overcomes transversal loads of the sliding screw, the dynamization can still occur. Biomechanical investigation was performed for three types of dynamic implants: Gamma Nail, and two types of Selfdynamizable Internal Fixators (SIF) - SIF-7 (containing two 7mm non-cannulated sliding screws), and SIF-10 (containing one 10mm cannulated sliding screw). Contact surface between the stem and the sliding screws is larger in SIF implants than in Gamma Nail, as the stem of Gamma Nail is hollow. A special testing device was designed for this study to provide simultaneous application of a controlled sliding screws bending moment and a controlled transversal load on sliding screws (Qt) without using of weights. Using each of the implants, axial forces required to initiate sliding screws dynamization (Qa) were applied and measured using a tensile testing machine, for several values of sliding screws bending moment. Standard least-squares method was used to present the results through the linear regression model. Positive correlation between Qt and Qa was confirmed (p < 0.05). While performing higher bending moments in all the tested implants, Qa was higher than it could be provided by the body weight. It was the highest in Gamma Nail, and the lowest in SIF-10. A larger contact surface between a sliding screw and stem results in lower forces required to initiate dynamization of a sliding screw. Patients treated for a pertrochanteric fracture by a sliding screw internal fixation who have longer femoral neck or higher body weight could have different programme of early postoperative rehabilitation than lighter patients or patients with shorter femoral neck.

Postoperative Recovery and Rehabilitation: A Comparative Analysis of Mobility and Social Dependency After Gamma Nail Vs. Proximal Femoral Nail Surgery

Background: The management of stable extracapsular fractures of the proximal femur challenges orthopedic practice, with postoperative recovery and rehabilitation outcomes being crucial for patient independence and quality of life. This study compares Gamma Nail and Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) regarding mobility and social dependency post-surgery.&#x0D; Methods: Fifty patients were retrospectively analyzed, divided into two groups based on the surgical intervention received. Mobility scores, social dependency scales, and pain levels were assessed at various postoperative intervals.&#x0D; Results: The PFN group showed quicker improvements in mobility and reductions in social dependency, with notably less pain reported in the early postoperative period. Both interventions were effective, but PFN presented some advantages in facilitating rehabilitation.&#x0D; Conclusion: While both Gamma Nail and PFN effectively manage stable extracapsular fractures, PFN may offer benefits in early postoperative recovery. Tailoring surgical choices to individual patient needs is essential for optimizing rehabilitation outcomes.&#x0D; Keywords: Proximal femur fractures, Gamma Nail, Proximal Femoral Nail, postoperative recovery, mobility, social dependency.

Meta-analysis of the clinical efficacy of the Gamma3 nail vs Gamma3U-blade system in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures.

The traditional Gamma3 nail is a mainstream treatment for femoral intertrochanteric fractures. Literature reports that the Gamma3U-blade system can increase the stability of the Gamma3 nail and reduce complication incidence. However, comparative studies between the Gamma3U-blade and Gamma3 systems are limited; hence, this meta-analysis was performed to explore the clinical efficacy of these two surgical methods. To investigate the clinical efficacy of Gamma3 and Gamma3 U-blade for intertrochanteric fractures. A computerized search for Chinese and English literature published from 2010 to 2022 was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases. The search keywords were gamma 3, gamma 3 U blade, and intertrochanteric fracture. Additionally, literature tracking was performed on the references of published literature. The data were analyzed using Revman 5.3 software. Two individuals checked the inputs for accuracy. Continuous variables were described using mean difference and standard deviation, and outcome effect sizes were expressed using ratio OR and 95% confidence interval (CI). High heterogeneity was considered at (P < 0.05, I2 > 50%), moderate heterogeneity at I2 from 25% to 50%, and low heterogeneity at (P ≥ 0.05, I2 < 50%). Following a comprehensive literature search, review, and analysis, six articles were selected for inclusion in this study. This selection comprised five articles in English and one in Chinese, with publication years spanning from 2016 to 2022. The study with the largest sample size, conducted by Seungbae in 2021, included a total of 304 cases. Statistical analysis: A total of 1063 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The main outcome indicators were: Surgical time: The Gamma3U blade system had a longer surgical time compared to Gamma3 nails (P = 0.006, I2 = 76%). Tip-apex distance: No statistical significance or heterogeneity was observed (P = 0.65, I2 = 0%). Harris Hip score: No statistical significance was found, and low heterogeneity was detected (P = 0.26, I2 = 22%). Union time: No statistical significance was found, and high heterogeneity was detected (P = 0.05, I2 = 75%). Our study indicated that the Gamma3 system reduces operative time compared to the Gamma3 U-blade system in treating intertrochanteric fractures. Both surgical methods proved to be safe and effective for this patient group. These findings may offer valuable insights and guidance for future surgical protocols in hip fracture patients.

Quality of Life After Proximal Femoral Fractures Treated With Gamma Nail in Sudan.

Background Hip fracture is a public health problem globally, and it poses one of the biggest challenges in healthcare due to its associated complications. Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the quality of life in adult patients in Khartoum State, Sudan, after they have undergone treatment using a gamma nail for proximal femoral fractures. Methodology This cross-sectional descriptive hospital-based study was conducted at Ibrahim Malik, Omdurman, and Bahri Teaching Hospitals over six months, from April to October 2022. The data were collected using an interview questionnaire that covered relevant aspects of the study. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, V. 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). The study was approved by the Sudan Medical Specialization Board, and ethical clearance was obtained. Results The study included 37 patients. More than half of the patients (59.5%, n=22) were women. The mean age of cases was 66.7 years (standard deviation, ±15.6). The mean time from the time of the fracture to the time of surgery was eight days (±15). Twenty-three (62.2%, n=23) (JRB1) of the patients started weight bearing on the second postoperative day. Regarding the health-related quality of life, 21.6% of the patients had a good health-related quality of life, 67.6% had a fair health-related quality of life, and 10.8% had a poor health-related quality of life. None of the patients reported an excellent quality of life. Based on the Oxford Hip Score, 54.1% of the patients had satisfactory joint function, 29.7% had mild to moderate hip joint function, 13.5% had moderate to severe hip joint function disturbance, and one patient (2.7%) had severe hip joint function problems. Conclusion In this study, the vast majority of the patients who underwent gamma nail surgery for hip fracture had quality of life scores in the fair to good range afterward. The results indicate that nailing is associated with good outcomes regarding quality of life and is an acceptable option for femoral fracture surgeries in Sudan.

CEPHALOMEDULLARY NAILING FOR SUBTROCHANTERIC FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES: A COMPARISON OF SINGLE LAG SCREW WITH A DUAL LAG SCREW DEVICE

This study compares outcomes of fixation of subtrochanteric femoral fractures using a single lag screw (Gamma3 nail, GN) with a dual lag screw device (InterTAN nail, IN). The primary outcome was mechanical failure, defined as lag screw cut-out, back-out, nail breakage or peri-implant fracture. Technical factors associated with mechanical failure were also identified.All adult patients (&gt;18yrs) with a subtrochanteric femoral fracture treated in a single centre were retrospectively identified using electronic records. Included patients underwent surgical fixation using either a long GN (2010–2017) or IN (2017–2022). Cox regression analysis was used to determine the risk of mechanical failure and technical predictors of failure.The study included 587 patients, 336 in the GN group (median age 82yrs, 73% female) and 251 in the IN group (median age 82yrs, 71% female). The IN group exhibited a higher prevalence of osteoporosis (p=0.002) and CKD□3 (p=0.007). There were no other baseline differences between groups. The risk of any mechanical failure was increased two-fold in the GN group (HR 2.51, p=0.020). Mechanical failure comprising screw cut-out (p=0.040), back-out (p=0.040) and nail breakage (p=0.51) was only observed in the GN group. The risk of peri-implant fracture was similar between the groups (HR 1.10, p=0.84). Technical predictors of mechanical included varus &gt;5° for cut-out (HR 15.61, p=0.016), TAD&gt;25mm for back-out (HR 9.41, p=0.020) and shortening &gt;1cm for peri-implant fracture (HR 6.50, p=&lt;0.001).Dual lag screw designs may reduce the risk of mechanical complications for patients with subtrochanteric femoral fractures.

Sterile Inflammatory Response and Surgery-Related Trauma in Elderly Patients with Subtrochanteric Fractures.

Sterile inflammation is a natural response of the organism in the absence of microorganisms, which is triggered in correspondence with the degree of tissue damage sustained after a surgical procedure. The objective of this study was to explore the values of postoperative hematological-derived biomarkers in assessing the sterile inflammatory response magnitude related to the invasiveness of the surgical reduction technique used for subtrochanteric fractures (STFs) treatment. A retrospective, observational cohort research was conducted between January 2021 and October 2023 that included a total of 143 patients diagnosed with acute subtrochanteric fractures who underwent long Gamma Nail (LGN) fixation. According to the surgical reduction technique used, they were divided into two groups: group 1, which consisted of those with a closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF); and group 2, which consisted of those with an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). Between groups, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in relation to days to surgery, length of hospital stay (LOHS), duration of surgery, postoperative hemoglobin (HGB) levels, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and aggregate inflammation systemic index (AISI). The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis revealed that all ratios presented a high diagnostic ability (p < 0.0001) with NLR > 6.95 being the most reliable (sensitivity 94.8% and specificity 70.6%). Moreover, the multivariate regression model confirmed that sterile immune response after orthopedic interventions can be assessed in an almost equal and non-dependent manner using these biomarkers. Postoperative NLR, PLR, MLR, SII, SIRI, and AISI ratios are closely correlated to the sterile inflammatory response magnitude, due to the extent of surgical dissection performed during internal fixation procedures of subtrochanteric femur fractures.

Assessment of Surgical and Non-surgical Outcomes in Patients with Dementia and Hip Fractures.

The aging population is associated with increased osteoporosis and risk of hip fractures. Cognitive decline has recorded exponential increases in the last decades, with the rise in life expectancy. We conducted a prospective study on 65 patients over 65 years old associated with dementia and hip fractures. We used pre-and post-treatment variables such as age, type of fracture, type of treatment, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), EQ-5D-5L score, and the Harris hip score (HHS) to assess pain, mobility, and mortality. We performed follow-ups at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years. Patients with dementia typically arrive at the hospital without any previous analgesic treatment and receive lower doses due to poor pain recognition. The 6-month mortality rate was 48.22% and increased to 78.46% at 3 years. The best survival rates were in patients with bipolar prosthesis and Gamma nails, with a 3-year survival rate of 40% and 50%, respectively. Patients with dementia have a higher mortality rate compared to cognitively intact patients and the treatment decisions require a multidisciplinary team and individualized recommendations for each patient, due to high surgical risk in the elderly.

A novel intramedullary nail design of intertrochanteric fracture fixation improved by proximal femoral nail antirotation

A proper and reliable fracture fixation is important for fracture healing. The proximal femoral intramedullary nail (IN), such as proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) or Gamma nail, is widely used for intertrochanteric fracture fixation. However, it still suffers considerable stress concentrations, especially at the junction between the nail and the blade or lag screw. In this study, we propose a novel intramedullary nail design to enhance the intramedullary nail integrity by introducing a bolt screw to form a stable triangular structure composed of the nail, the lag screw, and the bolt screw (PFTN, Proximal femoral triangle nail). Systematic finite element numerical simulations were carried out to compare the biomechanical performances of PFTN and PFNA under both static and dynamic loads during the postures of ascending and descending stairs. The simulation results highlight the advantages of the proposed PFTN design with lower stresses, less stress concentration, and higher structure stability.