The approach to Intramedullary (IM) fixation of long bone fractures remains a controversial issue. Early reports demonstrated less favourable results of retrograde nailing as compared with antegrade options due to higher non-union rates. The aim of this audit was to evaluate the outcomes of practice within the Trauma and Orthopaedic department with relation to IM nail fixation of diaphyseal femur fractures. The Trauma database between February 2010 and September 2013 was used to identify all femur IM nailing procedures. Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) software was used to classify the fractures according to the Muller AO classification. All 3–2 (Diaphyseal femur fractures) were included in the audit. PACS imaging together with outpatient documentation was evaluated for radiological and clinical outcome.Background
Methodology