Research progress concerning match between femoral anterior arch and intramedullary nail / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

The femoral anterior arch is an important factor that must be considered when intramedullary nailing is used to treat a femoral intertrochanteric fracture, as its curvature decides the radius, length and diameter of the curvature of a proximal femoral intramedullary nail and selection of a proper entry point for the nail as well. Mismatch between an intramedullary nail and the femoral anterior arch can lead to poor stability, postoperative pain in the anterior thigh, irritation of the anterior femoral cortex and even a perforation fracture. In order to ensure fine curative effects for femoral intertrochanteric fractures, it is necessary to have a full understanding of the femoral anterior arch. The curvature of the femoral anterior arch can be expressed by the radius of curvature (ROC) or the angle of femoral anterior arch, with the former more widely used. This article mainly discusses the issues concerning ROC and the match between femoral anterior arch and intramedullary nail so as to clarify how an intramedullary nail can be stable enough to reduce postoperative complications.