External fixation in the management of Intertrochanteric fractures in elderly high risk patients

42 Intertrochanteric fractures in elderly high risk patients, with a score of II-III as per the classification of physical status according to the system of American Society of Anesthetists, were treated with external fixation, at an average age of 72 years. There were 19 male and 23 female patients. The left hip was affected in 24 patients and right hip in 18 patients. The patients were followed from 6-18 months; average follow up was 9 months. Final assessment was done at 6 months using modified Harris hip score. Average time for union was 14 weeks (11-20 weeks). 29 patients were ambulatory with out any support and 10 patients needed the help of a stick at final assessment. 23 patients had grade 1 pin tract infection, 10 patients had varus angulation more than 5o, external rotation deformity more than 5owas seen in 4 patients and shortening of more than 1 cm was seen in 5 patients.30 patients had no pain and 9 patients had mild activity related pain at final follow up. We concluded that external fixation is a good alternative which can restore mobility and achieve fracture union in elderly high risk patients with Intertrochanteric fractures.