Flexible intramedullary fixation of femoral fractures

Fifty femoral fractures in 47 patients were treated by the insertion of flexible intramedullary Ender rods and observed until fracture healing was complete. Both condylocephalic and trochanteric approaches were used with a preference for the latter when biomechanically feasible. The fractures ranged from the intertrochanteric-subtrochanteric junction to the supracondylar area of the femur. This technique can be used to treat fractures unsuited for conventional rods. The system is relatively uncomplicated, the technique atraumatic. Healing is generally rapid. There were no non-unions, infections, surgical deaths, or significant residual deformities.