Treatment of intertrochanteric fractures by external fixation

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the results of treatment of intertrochanteric fractures of the femur by external fixation in 33 patients with an average age of 65.9 years. Patients in the study had Evans stable type 1 intertrochanteric fractures and unstable type 1 fractures that could be reduced to anatomical or nearly anatomical position by closed manipulation under fluoroscopy. The average follow-up period was 24 months (range, 12 to 40 months). There was no mortality in the early postoperative period, but the mortality within six month following surgery was 39%. Complete fracture healing was achieved in all patients. The fixator was removed after an average of 94 days (75 to 130 days) at the outpatient clinic. Varus malalignment of more than 20 degrees and limb shortening greater than 2 cm were noted in 3 patients. Pin-tract infection was seen around 10 pins (7%). Osteomyelitis was not noted in any patients. Treatment of intertrochanteric fractures by external fixation is simple and can be done under local anesthesia together with narcotic analgesic support. It allows early mobilization, and implant removal is easy. Therefore we think that external fixation is a valuable alternative in high-risk geriatric patients.