The Usefulness of Poller Screw with Antegrade Nailing in the Initial Treatment of Infraisthmal Femur Shaft Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiologic and clinical outcomes after intramedullary nailing with Poller screw insertion at initial stage in infraisthmal femur shaft fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seven consecutive patients (7 femurs) treated with antegrade intramedullary nailing with Poller screw insertion for the infraisthmal femur shaft fracture were reviewed retrospectively. There were 4 male and 3 female patients. Mean age was 46.1 years (20-72 years). Operative time including Poller screw insertion, time for union, malalignment, and range of motion were evaluated. RESULTS: All 7 cases had primarily healed successfully. Mean time for radiologic union was 19.1 weeks (16-24 weeks) postoperatively. One case had 5 degree valgus malalignment. One case of 15 mm shortening was reported and he required shoe lift orthosis. All cases had a full range of motion in hip and knee joint. CONCLUSION: Antegrade intramedullary nailing with Poller screw insertion is useful in the initial treatment of infraisthmal femur shaft fracture, because it could provide additional stability. An additional 20 minutes were required but a Poller screw should be considered according to the anatomic location of a femur shaft fracture.