Intramedullary osteosynthesis in treating intertrochanteric fracture of the femur, based on our own experience using Gamma nails and Ender rods
Bednarenko, M.; Kotela, I.; Zieńzuk, W.; Korzec, A.
Przeglad Lekarski 65(1): 37-42
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-2240 PMID: 18669108 Document Number: 617753
Intertrochanteric fractures have always posed an interdisciplinary medical problem. Most frequently it happens between 7th and 8th decades of life. The majority of them are due to osteoporosis. Both for a medical doctor and surgeon they face quite a challenge when it comes to treating a patient with a fracture of the proximal epiphysis of the femur. Recently, the outcome of the fracture treatment has improved greatly due to introduction of modern methods of intramedullary and periosteal fusion. In this study we present a possible utilization of Gamma nails, its advantages and disadvantages compared with the stabilisation achieved using Ender rods. We analyzed the outcome of treatment of 198 patients treated for intertrochanteric fractures of the femur. We present advantages and disadvantages of both methods of stabilization. We stress the importance of the correct reduction of the bone even if requiring opening. We also point to difficulties that accompany both types of stabilization. The final results reveal a considerably better outcome in patients treated using Gamma nails, especially if fractures were instable.