Comparison of the Gamma Nail and the Proximal Femoral Nail in the Treatment of Intertrochanteric Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We wanted to evaluate the results of fracture fixation with using Gamma nails and Proximal Femoral Nails (PFN) for treating intertrochanteric fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2003 to December 2005, we reviewed 77 patients who suffered with intertrochanteric fractures (35 cases of Gamma nails and 42 cases of PFNs). We evaluated the intraoperative blood loss, the operation time, the presence of stable reduction and the varus reduction rate, the union time, cutting-out, the screw head position, the status of the fracture reduction and the complications. The pre- and post-operative difference in the patients' ambulatory ability was also investigated. RESULTS: The mean operation time with using Gamma nails was shorter and the screw with using Gamma nails was located more centrally than that with using PFNs. The other factors were not statistically different. Cutting-out was not noted with Gamma nails, but 2 cases of cutting out were noted with using PFNs. 8 cases of proximal migration were noted with Gamma nails and 6 cases of lateral protrusion of the proximal pin were noted with using PFNs. CONCLUSION: The Gamma nail for which a single lag screw was inserted centrally had no case of cutting-out, which was in contrast to using PFNs for which two lag screws were used, although there was no statistically significant difference. In addition to this, the shorter operative time makes Gamma nails more appropriate for the operative treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fracture.