Fixation with Cephalic Intramedullary Nail Versus Sliding Hip Screw for Fractured Lesser Trochanter with Completeness of Lateral Wall

Our study provides references and guidelines, backed by evidence and real world data, in determining if and which certain surgical devices are more applicable to improve the outcome of unstable intertrochanteric fracture treatments. This retrospective case-crossover study compares the clinical and radiographic outcomes of 177 elderly patients from 2010 to 2014, who underwent procedures for unstable intertrochanteric fractures, specifically, AO/OTA type 31-A1.3 fractures using either the cephalic intramedullary device (Gamma3 IM nail system, Stryker®); or the fixation with sliding hip screws method (Dynamic Hip Screw, DHS, Synthes®). Clinical outcome conclusions were based on the union rates of the fractures during the patient’s one year follow-up. Radiographic conclusions were drawn from various factors, including neck shortening, neck-shaft angle, neck medialization, posterior tilting, callus formation time, Tip-apex distance (TAD), implant failure, and modified TAD, an additional factor further explained in the paper. The study shows evidence that the cephalic intramedullary device had significantly shorter union time, and significantly reduced rates of lag screw sliding and femoral shortening as well. No significant differences with regard to malunion and cut-out of the lag screw were found. The use of the intramedullary devices led to better clinical and radiographical outcomes for this specific fracture.