Segmental Fractures of The Femur Treated By Interlocking Nailing

Abstract

Introduction: Various methods have been used in the treatment of segmental fractures of femoral shaft, which are among those fractures uncommonly encountered.
Patients and methods: A total of nine patients were treated by interlocking intramedullary nailing at the Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University. Seven patients were male and two were female, with a mean age of 32.4 years (range: 14-67) of the fracture, 7 were closed and 2 were open. These acute traumatic cases consisted of five traffic accident, gunshots, one due to falling two from height and one remaining under a collapsed wall.
Findings: At the end of 19 months of follow-up (range: 15-32), delayed union developed in two case, 15 degree valgus deformity in one case and shortening of 2 cm in one case. The fractures healed within 7,3 months on average. Infection and non-union did not develop in any cases.
Conclusion: We are in the opinion that interlocking intramedullary nailling is an excellent method that can be selected in the treatment of segmental fractures.