Three treatments of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly

Objective To compare extramedullary fixation (EF), intramedullary fixation (IF) and dipolar femoral replacement(DFR) in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly patients. Methods From July 1999 to December 2008, 172 old patients with intertrochanteric fractures were treated by either EF, or IF or DFR. The operative procedures, complications and therapeutic effects were compared between the 3 methods. Results The patients included in the present study were followed up for 8 to 36 months (average, 19. 6 months). There were significant differences ( P<0. 05) in incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, functional recovery and complications between the 3 methods. IF had the shortest incision length and the least intraoperative blood loss. DFR had less blood loss than EF. IF had the least operation time, followed by DFR. DFR had the best functional recovery one year postoperatively. IF had shorter rehabilitation and healing time than EF. Conclusions EF is the first choice for intertrochanteric fractures of A 1.1, A 1.2, A 1.3 and A2. 1. IF is more appropriate for the aged and unhealthy patients with intertrochanteric fractures of A1. 1, A1. 2, A1. 3, A2. 1, A2. 2, A3. 1 and A3.2. DFR is fit for the elderly patients with severe comminuted fractures and osteoporosis.