Abstract: Background: Different fractures of the proximal femur are managed using different techniques depending on baseline functional status, patient’s age, fracture stability, injury mechanism, morphologic features, and/or fracture location. One such fracture is Subtrochanteric fractures of femur seen below lesser trochanter extending 5cm distally in femur shaft.
Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the functional outcomes of proximal femoral fractures in adult males managed using Long Proximal femoral nails.
Methods: The present prospective clinical study was conducted on 150 subjects managed for Subtrochanteric fractures of femur who were managed surgically using Long Proximal femoral nails. After treatment, the subjects were evaluated at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months using suitable radiographs and Harris Hip Score, and the results were formulated.
Results: 16% (n=24) subjects had no pain, whereas, severe pain was seen in 8% (n=12) subjects. Concerning stair climbing, 32.66% (n=49) subjects were able to climb stair without help and 3% (n=4) subjects were not able to climb stair. 96.66% (n=145) subjects were able to sit comfortably post-surgery. 36.66% (n=55) subjects were able to walk easily and 14% (n=21) subjects could walk only indoors. 36% (n=54) subjects needed no support post-surgery, 58% (n=87) needed canes, and 6% (n=9) needed crutch support. No limping, slight limping, and moderate limping was seen in 34% (n=51), 40.66% (n=61), and 25.33% (n=38) subjects respectively. The functional results for the present study were excellent, good, fair, poor, and not known in 26% (n=39), 46% (n=69), 17.33% (n=26), 6.66% (n=10), and 4% (n=6) study subjects respectively
Conclusion: The present study concludes that subtrochanteric femur fractures are effectively managed using the long proximal femoral nail as a reliable implantation method with minimum soft-tissue damage and high bone-union rates. Various biochemical and biological advantages are associated with intramedullary fixation, however, this management strategy is technically demanding and requires patience and learning.
