[Nailing of inter- and subtrochanteric fractures - operative technique]

Intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures are a quite heterogeneous and imprecisely defined group of fractures. These fractures can be essentially divided into two basic groups. The first one belongs to trochanteric fractures. In the AO/ASIF classification; these fractures are called intertrochanteric (31A3). In the second group, the term subtrochanteric fracture is used by most authors for fractures about 5 cm distally from lesser trochanter. In both intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures, the proximal fragment is formed by femoral head, neck and greater trochanter including its base with vastus ridge (tuberculum vastoadductorium or innominate tubercle). On this tubercle, the gluteus medius muscle (proximally) and the origin of the vastus lateralis muscle (distally) are attached. Tension of these muscles may cause dislocation of the proximal fragment. For this reason, reduction of the fracture can be troublesome and it is more difficult than in pertrochanteric fractures It seems that intramedullary nailing will remain the favorite technique of most of the surgeons dealing with intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. We use short reconstruction nail in intertrochanteric fractures. It is useful to use long reconstruction nail in subtrochanteric fractures. Distal locking of the nail is necessary. Dynamic distal locking is preferred because the two main fragments are compressed along the axis of the nail. The number of complications was largely related to technical errors, such as insufficient reduction or an incorrectly inserted implant. No implant can compensate for errors due to surgery. Serious complications can be reduced by the correct assessment of fracture type, the use of an appropriate operative technique and early treatment of potential complications. The necessity of restoring continuity in the medial cortex of the femoral neck (Adams arch) is the requirement that should be observed. Pseudoarthrosis or varus malalignment in a healed hip should be managed by valgus osteotomy. When the femoral head or the acetabulum is damaged, total hip arthroplasty is indicated. A prerequisite for successful surgical outcome is urgently and correctly performed osteosynthesis allowing for early rehabilitation and mobilisation of the patient.