Abstract
Aim: The purpose of our study is to evaluate the results of interlocking intramedullary nailing for femoral shaft fractures giving special attention in the number of the distal bolts.
Materials – methods: In a period of 3.5 years (6/1999 – 12/2002), 74 patients with femoral shaft fractures were treated with the Russell – Taylor interlocking intramedullary nailing. 46 were male and 28 female; their ages ranging from 16 to 79 years (mean 37.5years). According to the A.O. Classification 21 were type A, 25 type B and 29 type C. The Russell-Taylor Nail was used. Reaming was performed in all cases. The distal bolts were inserted using the “FREE-HAND” technique. One screw was inserted in 44 cases and two in 30 in a random manner.
Results: No postoperative complications occurred. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months (mean 18 months). In the cases where two distal bolts were inserted the fractures united in a period of 4 to 6 months (average 4.8 m.), while these where one screw was placed healed in a period of 4 to 10 months (average 6.5 m.).
Conclusion: The Russell-Taylor interlocking itramedullary nail is an efficient method of treatment for femoral shaft fractures. The insertion of two distal screws offers additional stability, which accelerates the healing process and is advocated for all femoral shaft fractures.
The abstracts were prepared by Eleni Koutsoukou. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Hellenic Association of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (HAOST), 20, A. Fleming str, 15123 Marousi, Athens, Greece.
