New Gen Halifax Nail with Novel Tri-Wire Concept for Intertrochanteric Fracture

Intertrochanteric fractures are common in elderly patients and can lead to significant malunion and varus deformities if untreated. While the dynamic hip screw has been the gold standard, there is a continuous effort to evaluate newer fixation devices. This study assesses the functional and radiological outcomes of intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with the Halifax nail, aiming to provide a contemporary comparison to existing methods.

This prospective study was conducted at our institution from January 2019 to December 2024. We included patients with intertrochanteric fractures, excluding those with open fractures, pathological fractures, pre-operative neurovascular deficits, or polytrauma with head injuries. All patients underwent surgery under spinal anesthesia on a fracture table. Closed reduction was attempted under C-arm guidance; if unsuccessful, open reduction was performed. The Halifax nail was inserted after a tensor fascia lata and gluteus medius split. This was followed by lag screw insertion with tri-wire guidance, end cap application, and distal locking.

The study included 57 patients (31 male and 26 female). Fracture classifications were 11 AO type A1, 23 AO type A2, and 23 AO type A3. The average surgery duration was 65 min, with an average blood loss of about 200 mL. Patients achieved an average time to union of 11.7 weeks, and the functional outcome, measured by the average Harris Hip score, was 91.

The findings suggest that the Halifax nail provides favorable functional and radiological outcomes for intertrochanteric femur fractures. Its use resulted in good union rates and high patient function, indicating that it is a viable and effective treatment option. Further comparative studies are needed to confirm its role in orthopedic practice.