The AO/ASIF proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA): a new design for the treatment of unstable proximal femoral fractures

Abstract

Introduction: PFNA design compacts the cancellous bone to provide increased stability and has been bio-mechanically proven to retard rotation and varus collapse.

Methods: Between 2006 and 2007, 62 consecutive patients with unstable proximal femoral fractures were treated with the PFNA.

Results: Twenty males and 42 females with a mean age of 78 years (44-94) were reviewed. In 48 patients, the fracture resulted from a low energy injury. The majority of the fractures belonged to AO/ASIF types 31A2.3 (22) and 31A3.2 (29). Twelve patients required open reduction. The PFNA blade position was central in 52 patients with a mean tip-apex distance (TAD) of 12 mm (range 4-34 mm). Post-operatively, five patients died within 3 months and two patients were lost to follow-up. Forty-nine fractures united between 3 and 4 months. Four patients had delayed union. The PFNA blade cut out rate was 3.6%.

Conclusions: Unstable proximal femoral fractures were treated successfully with the PFNA. The PFNA blade appears to provide additional anchoring in osteoporotic bone. No results have been published on this new design.