RESUMO
TThe aim of this study was to evaluate plate augmentation over previously inserted interlocking nails, combined with iliac bone grafting in treating aseptic femoral shaft non-unions. The research was conducted prospectively on 34 patients. A narrow dynamic compression plate was placed while the nail was retained. All the screws were directed posterior to the nail. There were 25 males and 9 females with mean age of 36.6 years old. The mean operative time was 95 minutes with 320ml blood loss. 28 patients showed solid healing by 6 months postoperatively (82%). By 8 months, all patients showed solid union (mean 6.3 months). Full range was regained in both hips and knees and all patients could walk bearing full weight without supportive devices by 8 months. Where non-union occurs over an interlocking nail, augmenting it with a plate and bone grafting appears to be an effective treatment method to obtain solid union.
