[Pertrochanteric fracture in elderly subjects. Prospective non-randomized studies]

During a two-year period 237 patients were admitted for intertrochanteric fracture of the femur. 196 patients were included in this study with an average age of 79 years. Surgery comprised 163 nailings (Ender-Kempf), 31 blade plates and 2 prostheses. In this study the mortality rate and general complications were essentially related to the age and general condition of the patient; the general complications did not differ between methods. Walking ability at 6 months chiefly depended on the patient's general condition before the fall. The techniques allowing immediate weight-bearing diminished the length of hospitalization. Reoperation was required in 4% of nailings and 6.5% of blade plates.