InterTan nail versus Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation-Asia in the treatment of unstable trochanteric fractures

Abstract

The goal of this study was to compare the outcomes of unstable trochanteric fractures treated with the InterTan nail (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, Tennessee) and the Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA-II) (Synthes, Solothurn, Switzerland). A total of 132 consecutive patients with unstable trochanteric fractures of the femur were enrolled in the study. The only intervention was InterTan nail or PFNA-II fixation of the unstable trochanteric fractures. Follow-up occurred at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and yearly thereafter. Radiographs were obtained at each follow-up, and all implant position changes, complications, and fixation failures were recorded. A total of 113 patients meeting the criteria were evaluated at a mean last follow-up of 18.36 months (range, 12-30 months). Intraoperative complications and length of hospital stay were comparable between the groups. Patients treated with the PFNA-II experienced shorter fluoroscopy and operative times, less intraoperative blood loss, and less femoral neck shortening. The incidence of thigh pain was significantly higher in the PFNA-II group (30.4%) than in the InterTan group (10.3%) (P=.001). No statistically significant differences existed in general complications, local complications, walking ability, Harris Hip Scores, or hip range of motion at final follow-up.