Primary Unreamed and Unlocked Intramedullary Nailing of Femoral Shaft Fractures

Abstract

In this retrospective study, we present our experience using open Küntscher nailing (K-nailing) which is still performed in developing countries for femoral fractures. Of 157 acute fractures treated between January 2003 and December 2009, 100 were stable (63.7%) and 135 were located within the middle third of the shaft (86%). Comminution was absent or minimal in 135 (86%) cases. Fracture union was achieved at an average of 14 weeks (range, 10 - 25). The duration of follow-up was 17 months (range, 6 - 36). Final evaluation showed that 129 (82.2%) patients had a good result according to modified Kempf’s criteria. The predominant complications were infection (n=5; 3.2%), nonunion (n=9; 5.5%), implant failure (n=11; 7%), and malunion (n=27; 17.3%). Open reduction and fixation with a tight fitting K- nail can give good results in selected acute femoral shaft fractures but knowledge of potential complications is needed.

Keywords

• femoral shaft fracture
• intramedullary nailing
• open reduction