Sub-trochanteric fractures of the femur: results of ORIF at KMCTH.

Sub-trochanteric fractures of the femur are not commonly encountered as compared to trochanteric or neck of femur fractures. Relatively younger persons are injured more and a considerable violence is required for this fracture to occur. These fractures, treated conservatively by methods like traction, splints or casts, are often associated with complications like non-union, mal-union, shortening of the limb etc. Thus, we undertook this study of 10 consecutive cases of sub-trochanteric fractures of the femur treated by open reduction and internal fixation and bone grafting in Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, from the year Nov. 2000 to April 2006. There were 4 females and 6 male patients. Their age on average was 46.8 years (range 15 to 86 years). Most of the patients were in Type II or III in Seinsheimer classification; Type II A, B, and C, one, two and one respectively, and in Type III A and B three patients each. Seven patients were treated with dynamic hip screw. Three patients with type III were managed with centro-medullary interlocking nail with one cerclage suture. They were followed for a period of minimum 6 months to 6 years (average 3.5 years). Union was achieved in all, on an average 4 months postoperatively. Results were excellent and complications like nonunion, malunion or breakage of the implants, were not encountered in any patient.