Advantages of Distal Unlocked Proximal Femoral Nails in the Treatment of Stable Intertrochanteric Fractures in Geriatric Patients: A Single-Center Comparative Randomized Study

Background This study aimed to investigate the effect of omitting a distal locking screw in intramedullary nailing of stable intertrochanteric femur fractures on clinical outcomes. Methods Ninety-six patients over 65 years old with stable pertrochanteric fractures (AO/OTA 31-A1 and A2) treated with short/intermediate proximal femoral nails (PFNA-II) were randomly assigned into two groups: Group 1 (distal locked) and Group 2 (distal unlocked). Comparative analyses were conducted on operative time, total fluoroscopy time, blood loss, incision length, complications, and functional outcomes. Results The mean operative time was significantly shorter in Group 2 (35.73 ± 7.62 minutes) compared to Group 1 (47.40 ± 9.96 minutes) ( P < 0.001). Fluoroscopy time was also shorter in Group 2 (45.92 ± 6.08 seconds) compared to Group 1 (54.02 ± 5.94 seconds) ( P < 0.001). Incision length was reduced in Group 2 (9.21 ± 1.41 centimeters) compared to Group 1 (12.96 ± 1.68 centimeters) ( P < 0.001). Blood loss was lower in Group 2 (187.50 ± 32.00 milliliters) than in Group 1 (208.65 ± 49.12 milliliters) ( P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the groups in fracture union time, hospital stay, fracture union weeks, or postoperative blood transfusion rates. Conclusions Proximal femoral nailing without distal locking offers shorter operative times, reduced fluoroscopy exposure, and lower blood loss and complications, making it a viable option for treating stable intertrochanteric fractures.