[Clinical results with A new retrograde femoral nail with a radiographical-free proximal locking device. A prospective study with 50 fractures].
BACKGROUND
Conventional retrograde nailing of the femur causes two important disadvantages: the proximal locking of the nail is difficult because of the anatomic conditions and a chondral defect was left into the knee.


METHODS
After the retrograde implantation the new nail was lead through the greater trochanter. An additional proximal aiming device for proximal interlocking can be fixed. The entrance portal will be sealed by an osteochondral cylinder. 50 cases of femur fractures were selected for the prospective study. We recorded all intraoperative complications and technical difficulties. The cases were followed up for 52 weeks, both clinical and radiology examinations were performed.


RESULTS
The mean follow up was 15.5+/-5 months. All fractures were healed. Knee movement was 125+/-14 degrees. The Leung Score was 84+/-12.6 points; HSS Score was 90+/-9 points. In two cases wound infections were developed. Mal-union was observed in three cases, in two cases nail brake down.


CONCLUSIONS
The new retrograde interlocking nail could be used to manage femur fractures successfully. Two aiming devices enable a easy interlocking. Replacement of the osteochondral cylinder into the entry portal reduces cartilage damage.
Friemert
B
B
Chirurgische Klinik, Bundeswehrkrankenhaus Ulm. dr.benediktfriemert@dr-friemert.de
Keppler
P
P
von Lübken
F
F
Willy
C
C
Claes
L
L
Gerngross
H
H
Wörz
D
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001858:Bone Nails; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005260:Female; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011859:Radiography; D020127:Recovery of Function; D016896:Treatment Outcome