ABSTRACT
Twenty two unstable femoral shaft fractures were treated by Russel Taylor interlocking nail. 63.6% were male and 36.4% were females. Their average age was 36.8 years [ +/- SD 10.33]. The lower 1/3 rd of the femur was fractured in 40.9%, the upper in 31.8% and the middle 1/3 rd in 27.3% of the cases. The fracture was comminuted in 50%, transverse in 22.8%, spiral in 13.6% and double level in 13.6. The fractures were closed in 81.9% and grade 1 open in 18.1% of the cases. Closed technique was used in 36.4% and open in 13.6%. All patients were followed up for an average of 14 months. After one year follow up 90.9% of the fractures had solid complete consolidation and 9.1% had non-union. Full weight bearing was permitted after a period ranged from 2 to 10 months [average 6.5] and occurred in 90.9% of patients. Infection occurred in 4.5% of cases and subsided with antibiotic treatment, shortening in 13.6%, non-union in 9.1%, foot drop in 4.5% and the distal screw was broken in 9.1%. The results were satisfactory [excellent and good] in 81.8% and unsatisfactory in 18.2%. Based on this study, treatment of unstable femoral shaft fracture with interlocking nail has many advantages. The risk of infection and non-union is low, incidence and severity of malunion are reduced, the hospital stay is short and early mobilization of the patient is possible