Ipsilateral intertrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures. Four patients treated by one technique

Concomitant intertrochanteric and diaphyseal fracture of the femur is an uncommon injury that is probably best managed by open reduction and internal fixation as soon as the patient is hemodynamically stable. Four cases are presented in which rigid fixation of both fractures allowed early mobilization of the patient, facilitating nursing care and allowing rapid rehabilitation. Use of the sliding compression screw with a long side plate, although technically demanding, achieved rigid fixation with compression at both fracture sites. All fractures in the present series united, but in two of four cases moderate hip and knee stiffness compromised the final result, probably as a result of the severity of the initial trauma and associated injuries.