Role of Provisional Fixation of Fracture Fragments By Steinmann-Pin and Technical Tips in Proximal Femoral Nailing for Intertrochanteric Fracture

Proximal Femoral Nailing (PFN) in Intertrochanteric Fractures (IF) is becoming the choice of implant due to better biomechanics and prevention of varus collapse associated with Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS). Technical difficulties and implant related complications are yet to be addressed. To understand the technical difficulties involved in PFN and role of provisional fixation of fracture by Steinmann-pin. In this study, 55 patients presented to a tertiary trauma center in India with trochanteric fractures from April 2010 to March 2012 were included and treated with PFN. All patients were followed-up for two years and final outcome assessment included shortening, neck shaft angle and Harris Hip Score was done. In all except one, neck shaft angle greater than 130° was achieved and also maintained in the final follow up (Mean 131.1°). All fractures were united with mean shortening of 3.6 mm and average Harris Hip Score of 91 after two years. There were five complications which included one shortening, two varus collapses, one backed out screws and one reverse Z effect. Though PFN is technically challenging, with proper technique, gives excellent results with negligible varus collapse even in unstable fractures. Three most important technical aspects are achieving good non-varus reduction, inserting nail correctly and accurate placement of lag screws. The technique of provisional fixation of fracture fragments by Steinmann-pin significantly helps in achieving these and reduces the risk of implant failure.