THE PROXIMAL FEMORAL NAIL ANTIROTATION SYSTEM: A VERSATILE OPTION IN FEMORAL FRACTURE FIXATION

Abstract

Introduction: The proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) system is a cephalomedullary device originally designed to contend with the challenge of unstable tro-chanteric femoral fractures with the novel helical blade component aimed at limiting femoral head limiting cutout. We demonstrate its use in a variety of cases.

Methods: This is a prospective study of 370 consecutive patients treated with short and long PFNA systems at a single center with 1-year follow-up. The device was used for unstable trochanteric femoral fractures (AO-classification 31. A.2 and A.3), prophylactic and definitive fixation of pathological fractures and high energy femoral fractures for a wide age range (19–101 years). Clinical outcome involved assessment of general mobility & function, operative and post-operative parameters & complications. Radiological outcome involved assessment of blade tip-apex distance, nail tip-femoral scar distance and distal locking configurations.

Results: 17% died within the follow-up period. 72% achieved their pre-trauma mobility status and nearly all fractures healed within 6 months including those in over 85 years. Of 18 problematic cases, serious complications included deep infection, loss of proximal reduction, ipsilateral femoral shaft fracture and periprosthetic supra-condylar fracture. There were no cases of acetabular penetration or blade cut-out. Short PFNA was associated with the majority of femoral shaft fractures and the only significant finding regarding instrumentation.

Discussion: This study supports long PFNA design theory demonstrating adequate purchase in the femoral head-neck zone, shown by lack of cut-out. Positive results have been demonstrated in a variety of cases making it a useful option in fractures in all ages and indications alongside unstable trochanteric configurations.