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Updated: Mar 15, 2026
08:04
Proximal Cadaveric Femur Preparation for Fracture Strength Testing and Quantitative CT-based Finite Element Analysis
Published on: March 11, 2017
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A complex proximal femoral fracture
R Giancola1, L P Marchesi1, M G Lettera1
1San Carlo Borromeo Hospital, v. Pio II, 20147, Milan, Italy.
Injury
|September 11, 2016
Summary
A complex proximal femoral fracture in a sportswoman was successfully treated by preserving bone stock with skeletal traction and an intramedullary nail. This surgical approach led to complete fracture healing and a pain-free return to running within 20 months.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Traumatology
- Biomechanical engineering
Background:
- Complex proximal femoral fractures require advanced treatment strategies to preserve bone stock.
- Motorcycle accidents are a common cause of severe orthopedic trauma.
- Skeletal traction and intramedullary nailing are established orthopedic interventions.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old sportswoman sustained a complex proximal femoral fracture (neck and trochanteric regions) after a motorcycle accident.
- The patient's natural bone stock was prioritized during the treatment plan.
- Initial management involved skeletal traction, followed by intramedullary nail implantation.
Findings:
- The fracture achieved clinical and radiological healing after 20 months.
- The patient experienced a complete recovery, regaining the ability to walk and run without pain.
- Preservation of bone stock contributed to favorable long-term functional outcomes.
Implications:
- This case highlights the efficacy of combined skeletal traction and intramedullary nailing for complex proximal femoral fractures.
- The findings suggest that preserving bone stock can lead to excellent functional recovery in active individuals.
- This treatment paradigm offers a viable option for managing high-energy femoral injuries in athletes.
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