Functional outcome after intertrochanteric fractures of the femur: does the implant matter? A prospective study of 100 consecutive cases

Abstract

In a randomized study of 100 consecutive patients with an intertrochanteric fracture of the femur fixed internally either with a sliding hip screw or with a McLaughlin nail-plate, the functional outcome of the 6 months survivors has been analysed. There was no statistically significant difference between the two treatment groups with regard to the rehabilitation progress and recovery to the prefracture walking ability, pain and gait at 6 months. Of the 6 months survivors, 55 per cent whose fractures were unstable and 76 per cent whose fractures were stable regained 90 per cent or more of their individual prefracture walking ability. The incidence of failure by 'cutting-out', the reoperation rate and the mortality at 6 months were not statistically different in the two treatment groups.