Outcome and complications of intertrochanteric femur fractures treated by proximal femoral nail

Abstract

Purpose: This study was done to report the functional outcome and the complications of intertrochanteric fractures fixed with Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) in Indian population.Methods: 124 patients with intertrochanteric fractures fixed with PFN and with a minimum follow-up of 4 months were assessed. Functional outcome was calculated using Modified Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Parkers Mobility Score (PMS). Radiological outcome was assessed using hip radiographs and complications encountered during the follow-up period were noted.Results: 117 patients had a good functional outcome with mean HHS of 71.2 and PMS 7.09. During first year, outcome and recovery was better for AO 31A1 and 31A2 fractures (p < 0.05). After one year, no difference was seen in outcome between fracture types. Patients less than 60 years had better outcome than those above 60 years (p < 0.05). Three patients expired during follow-up period. Nine patients had implant related complications with four of them requiring conversion to arthroplasty.Conclusion: We conclude that PFN is a suitable implant for the treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures in Indian population, with good outcome and less complications. Functional outcome was independent of fracture type and inversely related to the age of the patient.