Journal of Medical Sciences (Jan 2015)

Prophylactic Fixation of an Incomplete Subtrochanteric Femur Fracture Due to a Low-velocity Gunshot Injury: A Unique Case

  • Sin-Jhang Wang,
  • Chih-Chien Wang,
  • Chian-Her Lee,
  • Yuan-Ta Li,
  • Jen-Ta Shih,
  • Leou-Chyr Lin,
  • Hsain-Chung Shen

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/1011-4564.173010
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 35, no. 6
pp. 258 – 260

Abstract

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We report on a 17-year-old man who underwent prophylactic fixation of the incomplete subtrochanteric femur fracture produced by a low-velocity gunshot. The subtrochanteric region is a high-stress site. Therefore, to avoid progression to complete fracture and displacement requiring secondary surgical stabilization, we used a proximal femoral nail for prophylactic fixation of the incomplete subtrochanteric femur fracture. The patient was able to walk and bear weight on the injured side immediately after surgery. At the 1-year follow-up, the patient was pain-free with a full range of motion of his right hip and had a bony union.

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