Role of gamma nail in management of pertrochanteric fractures of femur

BACKGROUND: Pertrochanteric fractures which involve trochanteric fractures with varying fracture geometry pose a significant challenge to the treating orthopedic surgeon. The aim of this study is to evaluate the management of pertrochanteric fractures of the femur using gamma nail [Asia pacific (AP)]. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients of pertrochanteric fractures were treated by closed reduction internal fixation by gamma nail from 1 January 1993 to 31 December 2000. Four patients were lost to follow-up. The remaining 56 patients were followed for a mean period of 3.2 years (range 2-4 years).The results were evaluated by assessing the patients regarding their clinical and functional outcome at follow-up as per Kyle's criteria. RESULTS: Peroperative jamming of nail (n = 1), failed distal locking (n = 1), superior cut out of lag screw (n = 1) and postoperative varus malreduction (n = 1) were the complications observed. End results were excellent in 46.34%, good in 36.58%, fair in 14.64%, poor in 2.43%. CONCLUSION: Gamma nail in expert hands is a suitable implant for management of pertrochanteric fractures of the femur.