title: 3D finite element analysis of the gamma nail and dhs plate in trochanteric hip fractures.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The finite element method (FEM) was used to evaluate the short-term mechanical stability of trochanteric fractures treated by two types of implants: the Gamma" nail (Howmedica) and the Dynamic Hip Screw, DHS" (Synthes).
  
  
  METHODS
  The displacement and stress distributions of bone and implants were computed using a complete 3D FE model.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The main conclusion is that proximal stable femoral fractures can be treated correctly with the Gamma Nail and DHS. For unstable fractures, the Gamma Nail achieves good stabilization but DHS is insufficient and requires a static screw due to the lack of torsional stiffness. Both extramedullary and intramedullary systems were found to distort the load transmission with respect to the anatomic pattern, so they both have biomechanical limitations in the long-term. (Hip International 2004; 14: 18-23)NO PDF AVAILABLE!
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, University Hospital of Zaragoza Aragon Institute.
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Seral
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Garca
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Cegoino
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Doblare
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Seral