Treatment of Supracondylar-Intercondylar Femoral Fractures with a Retrograde Intramedullary Nailing

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We analyzed the cases of supracondylar-intercondylar femoral fracture treated with retrograde intramedullary nail and report the clinical results and its usefulness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 17 cases of supracondylar-intercondylar femoral fracture that had been treated with retrograde intramedullary nail and each of patients had been followed up for a minimum one year. Post-operative functional assessment was performed using a scale developed by Sanders et al. The evaluation scale assesses range of motion, pain, walking ability, return to work, and alignment and shortening as measured on radiograph. RESULTS: According to functional assessment of Sanders et al, there were 6 excellent, 9 good, 1 fair, and 1 poor results, that is, 94% showed above excellent results. Bony union was obtained in average 5 months after operation. The post-operative complications were varus deformity in 1 case, wound infection in 1 case, stiffness of knee joint in 1 case, and metal failure in 1 case. CONCLUSION: The treatment of supracondylar-intercondylar femoral fracture with retrograde intramedullary nail is one of the good surgical options for clinically preferable results with the advantages in early joint motion and early ambulation.