Treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the femur: dynamic hip screw versus conventional nail-plate

In a prospective randomized study of treatment of fifty-two cases with unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the hip, the use of conventional nail-plate was compared with the use of dynamic screw-plate. There were no significant differences in the two groups as regard pain and morbidity. Patients with DHS showed earlier mobilization and shorter hospital stay. Failure of stabilization both clinically and radiologically were fewer in the group of DHS. Although the slightly longer and more difficult operative procedure and the higher cost of DHS, at the end of 6 months most patients in this group were more mobile and returned to their independent existence [86% compared to 75% of the other group]