Intramedullary Fixation of Unstable Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures: One or Two Lag Screws : Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma

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Intramedullary Fixation of Unstable Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures

One or Two Lag Screws

Kubiak, Erik N. MD; Bong, Mathew MD; Park, Samuel S. MD; Kummer, Fred PhD; Egol, Kenneth MD; Koval, Kenneth J. MD

Author Information
Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma 18(1):p 12-17, January 2004.

Abstract

Objective 

To compare the screw sliding characteristics and biomechanical stability of four-part intertrochanteric hip fractures stabilized with an intramedullary nail using either one large-diameter lag screw (intramedullary hip screw [IMHS]; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN) or two small-diameter lag screws (trochanteric antegrade nail [TAN]; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN).

Design 

Laboratory investigation using eight matched pairs of cadaveric human femurs with simulated, unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures.

Intervention 

One femur of each matched pair was stabilized with an IMHS intramedullary nail, and the other was stabilized with a TAN intramedullary nail. Femurs were statically, then cyclically loaded on a servohydraulic materials testing machine. Finally, all specimens were loaded to failure.

Main Outcome Measures 

Screw sliding and inferior and lateral head displacements were measured for applied static loads from 500N to 1250N. The same measurements were obtained before and after cyclically loading the specimens at 1250N. Ultimate failure strength of the implant constructs also was determined.

Results 

There was no significant difference between the TAN and IMHS in static or cyclical loading with respect to screw sliding or inferior and lateral head displacements. There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.02) in failure strength, with the IMHS construct failing at an average of 2162N and the TAN construct failing at an average of 3238N.

Conclusion 

The two constructs showed equivalent rigidity and stability in all parameters assessed in elastic and cyclical tests. The TAN had a greater ultimate failure load.

© 2004 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

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