Biomechanical study of the Grosse-Kempf femoral nail.

We have carried out a biomechanical study of the forces acting on the Grosse-Kempf intramedullary nail to determine those which most affect its structure. We have used finite element analysis to assess the distribution of compression, flexion and torsion forces. The qualitative and quantitative distribution of the tension on the surface of the nail has been observed. We have shown that the torsional force is most important and it is exerted in the posterior part of the nail where there is a change from the unslotted to the slotted section.