Outcome of treatment of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fracture by Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN)

ABSTRACT

Background: Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) is a surgical technique used to treat unstable intertrochanteric fractures, which are fractures that occur in the upper portion of the thigh bone (femur). The procedure involves using a nail-like device that is inserted into the femur and secured in place with screws to stabilize the fracture and promote healing. It is a commonly used treatment option for this type of fracture and can lead to good outcomes in most cases. The aim of the study was to observe the outcome of Unstable Intertrochanteric fracture by Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN). Material & Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics, National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study duration was 2 years, from July 2017 to June 2019. A total of 34 cases were included in the study sing purposive sampling (non-randomized) according to availability of the patients and considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The participants’ age range was 16-90, with a mean of 56.91 ± 17.76. Most (35.29%) were 61-75 years old. 61.76% were female and 38.24% were male. 50% were housewives, 14.71% ex-service holders, 14.71% service holders, 11.76% businessmen, 5.88% students, and 2.94% farmers. The leading cause of injury was falls on slippery ground (55.88%), followed by motor vehicle injuries (44.12%). 70.59% of injuries occurred on the right side and 29.41% on the left. 76% had Kyle Type III fractures, 24% had type IV. 85.29% had open reduction, 14.71% had closed reduction. The mean duration of injury to operation was 15.59 days and the mean hospital stay was 19.15 days. 70.59% had no complications and 55.88% reported no pain at last follow-up. 58.82% had a good Harris hip score and 58.82% had excellent outcomes by final follow-up. Conclusion: The majority of patients in this study were in the 61-75 age range and female, with the most common cause of injury being falls on slippery ground. The most common fracture type was Kyle type IV, with a major portion of cases requiring open reduction. The rate of complications was relatively low, and the functional outcomes were acceptable and comparable to other studies. The duration of injury to operation and hospital stay were slightly longer than other studies, likely due to the busy nature of the study location. Overall, the Proximal Femoral Nail is a safe and effective treatment option for unstable proximal femoral fractures.