Comparison between Closed and Open Interlocking Nailing For Femoral Shaft Fractures

Background:To compare the surgical, radiological, and functional ‘outcomes of closed interlocking nailing versus open interlocking nailing in patients with femoral shaft fractures’. Methods:This prospective comparative study included 62 patients with isolated femoral shaft fractures. ‘Patients were divided into two equal groups: Group A (n = 31) underwent closed interlocking nailing, while Group B (n = 31) received open interlocking nailing’. Data were collected on operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, union time, complications, and final functional outcomes. Statistical significance was assessed with a p-value threshold of ≤0.05. Results:The closed nailing group demonstrated significantly shorter operative time (p = 0.002), reduced blood loss (p = 0.001), and shorter hospital stay (p = 0.014). ‘Functional outcomes were significantly better in the closed group, with 80.6% achieving excellent to good recovery versus 67.7% in the open group (p = 0.03)’. Superficial infections were more common in the open group (p = 0.041), although union times were comparable. Conclusion:Closed interlocking nailing is a superior technique for treating femoral shaft fractures, offering better intraoperative efficiency, fewer complications, and improved patient outcomes. It should be the preferred approach when feasible