Initial experience with a second generation locking femoral nail: the Russell-Taylor reconstruction nail

A series of 36 patients with 20 subtrochanteric fractures, 12 ipsilateral neck/shaft fractures, and five intertrochanteric fractures with shaft extension underwent closed intramedullary nailing with the Russell-Taylor reconstruction (RECON) nail. The average Injury Severity Score was 16, and seven of the fractures were open. All fractures were acute injuries, and all but one were treated within 24 hours of admission. Follow-up was obtained at three, six, nine, 12, and 24 months or until the fracture healed. The range of follow-up was one to three years. Complete follow-up was obtained in 33 of 36 patients. Union was achieved in all acute fractures. Shortening occurred in two cases and chondrolysis and avascular necrosis occurred in another patient. Excellent hip and knee range of motion were obtained except in a few cases of ipsilateral limb injuries. While many complex femoral shaft fractures can be treated successfully with first generation locking nails, this study demonstrates that second generation locking nails, such as the RECON nail, offer the added strength and design features necessary for more effective treatment of complex proximal and ipsilateral femoral neck/shaft fractures.