Abstract
Introduction
An important factor in the internal fixation of pertrochanteric fractures is the ability to maintain postoperative reduction. Excessive postoperative sliding of the lag screw or blade may result in reduction loss. We retrospectively analyzed the relationship between postoperative reduction and sliding.
Methodology
From Oct. 2009 to Sept. 2011, we treated pertrochanteric fractures using J-PFNA (Synthes) and InterTAN (Smith & Nephew) in 91 cases and 82 cases, respectively. We used postoperative radiographs to classify its reduction. Fractures were classified for its interfragmentary contact using the calcar femorale as a reference on the A-P plane while using the anterior cortex as a reference on the M-L plane.
Results
PFNA cases showed greater postoperative sliding than InterTAN cases. Both demonstrated greater sliding when the proximal fragment was positioned inside the medullary canal on the M-L plane than when positioned outside or anatomically.
Conclusion
Although the InterTAN can maintain greater initial stability necessary for early weight-bearing, both implants demonstrate the loss of interfragmentary contact when the proximal fragment is positioned inside the medullary canal on the M-L plane resulting in greater risk of reduction loss. In order to maintain postoperative reduction, either anatomical reduction or reducing the proximal fragment outside the medullary canal is advised; no matter what type of internal fixation implants are used.
