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Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Treatment with Locking Intramedullary Nailing for Intertrochanteric Fracture of the Femur Utilizing a New Awl with a Distal Positioner
Published on: June 6, 2025
[Intertrochanteric femoral fractures in children]
P C Strohm1, H Schmal, K Kuminack
1Department für Orthopädie und Traumatologie, Kindertraumatologie, Klinikum der Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Hugstetterstrasse 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau. peter.strohm@uniklinik-freiburg.de
Insights
Intertrochanteric femoral fractures are rare in children. Surgical stabilization using a locking compression plate allows for early mobilization and full weight-bearing, offering a superior treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Pediatric Trauma Surgery
- Pediatric Bone Fractures
Background:
- Intertrochanteric femoral fractures are uncommon injuries in the pediatric population.
- The complex musculature of the proximal femur complicates conservative fracture management.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of intertrochanteric femoral fractures were reviewed.
- Literature review on the management of these rare childhood fractures was conducted.
Findings:
- Conservative treatment is challenging due to muscle forces causing fragment displacement (flexion, abduction, external rotation).
- Surgical stabilization using an angular stable, locking compression plate is the preferred therapeutic approach.
- This surgical method facilitates postoperative mobilization with full weight-bearing.
Implications:
- Highlights the effectiveness of surgical intervention for pediatric intertrochanteric femur fractures.
- Advocates for locking compression plate fixation as the gold standard in managing these injuries.
- Supports early functional recovery and weight-bearing in pediatric patients with this fracture type.
Abstract:
Based on two cases and a review of the literature, we describe a rare injury in childhood, intertrochanteric femoral fracture. Because of the insertion and traction of muscles at the proximal femur, conservative treatment is difficult. The hip muscles pull the proximal fragment into flexion, abduction and external rotation. In our opinion, surgical stabilization is the therapy of choice. We use an angular stable, locking compression plate for the stabilization of these fractures. Postoperatively, mobilization with full weight bearing is possible.
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