The effect of reamed and nonreamed intramedullary nailing on fracture healing

Dynamic Compression Plating Versus Antegrade Intramedullary Nailing for the Treatment of OTA/AO 12-A Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the humerus diaphysis are common and often result from motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Treatment methods range from nonoperative approaches to various operative techniques, including antegrade intramedullary nailing (AIMN) and dynamic compression plate (DCP) fixation. This study aimed to compare the cost effectiveness and outcomes of plating and nailing for humerus diaphyseal fractures.

METHODS

 A retrospective cohort study involving 59 cases of humerus diaphyseal OTA/AO 12-A fractures was conducted at King Saud Medical City (KSMC), a level I trauma center located in the center region in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Patients treated with AIMN, anterolateral plating, or posterior plating were included. Data on demographics, clinical parameters, radiographic healing, and costs were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The average surgical duration was shorter in the AIMN group compared to the anterolateral and posterior plating groups but with no statistical significance (P > 0.05). The average length of stay (LOS) was shorter, and the change in hemoglobin levels was lower in the AIMN group when compared to other groups but without a statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). The average cost of AIMN was significantly higher than that of anterolateral and posterior plating groups (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

 While both nailing and plating procedures are options for treating OTA/AO 12-A fractures, AIMN carries a higher overall procedural cost. The practice of drain placement in our study population is likely the cause of the increased LOS in the plating groups. Relative additional analgesic requirements were associated with AIMN. Surgeons should consider meticulous hemostasis to avoid drain placement, which can decrease LOS, thus possibly decreasing unnecessary treatment costs of humerus shaft fractures.

Reamed versus unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of femoral shaft fractures among adults: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the merits and drawbacks between reamed intramedullary nailing (RIN) and unreamed intramedullary nailing (URIN) among adults.

METHODS

We comprehensively searched PubMed, MEDLINE database through the PubMed search engine, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Embase, VIPI (Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals), and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) from inception to March 2020. Outcomes of interest included nonunion rates, implant failure rates, secondary procedure rates, blood loss, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) rates, and pulmonary complications rates.

RESULTS

Eight randomized controlled trials were included. The result of nonunion rates shows that the nonunion rate is significantly lower in the RIN group (RR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.09-0.48, Z = 3.63, P = 0.0003). There were no significant differences for the risk of implant failure rates (RR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.18-1.69, Z = 1.04, P = 0.30). The secondary procedure rates were significantly lower in the RIN group (RR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.12-0.66, Z = 2.91, P = 0.004). The result shows that the blood loss of URIN group is significantly lower (RR = 145.52, 95% CI = 39.68-251.36, Z = 2.69, P = 0.007). The result shows that there was no significant difference in the ARDS rates (RR = 1.53, 95% CI = 0.37-6.29, Z = 0.59, P = 0.55) and the pulmonary complications rates between RIN group and URIN group (RR = 1.59, 95% CI = 0.61-4.17, Z = 0.94, P = 0.35).

CONCLUSIONS

Reamed intramedullary nailing would lead to lower nonunion rate, secondary procedure rate and more blood loss. Unreamed intramedullary nailing is related to a higher nonunion rate, secondary procedure rate and less blood loss. No significant difference is found in implant failure rate, ARDS rate and pulmonary complication rate between the two groups.

Reamed Exchange Nailing in Nonunion of Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Review of the Current Evidence

One of the most dreaded complications of fracture management is a nonunion. Nonunions are usually difficult to manage and can be a source of significant mental, physical, and financial distress to the patient. The incidence of nonunion is dependent on multiple factors including degree of comminution, open versus closed, concomitant infection, and vascular status, and therefore the management of such nonunions continues to be an often debated topic. Currently, there is no clear consensus on the role of reamed exchange nailing for tibial shaft nonunions. While reamed exchange nailing for aseptic tibial shaft nonunions has shown promising results, with very high union rates, many surgeons prefer newer novel techniques such as plating along with osteoperiosteal decortication or the use of more conventional compressive plating with bone grafts. The aim of this article is to critically review and understand the available evidence base on reamed exchange nailing in nonunion of tibial shaft fractures and to explore the other options available and their indications.

Reamed Versus Unreamed Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures, Is It Time?

OBJECTIVES

This study compares the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of the traditional technique of femoral canal reaming to placement of an unreamed 10-mm nail.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic Level I Trauma Center, Southeastern US.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with a CMN (January 2016-December 2018) were retrospectively identified. Inclusion criteria were as follows: low-energy mechanism, at least 60 years of age, and long CMN. Exclusion criteria were as follows: short CMN, polytrauma, and subtrochanteric fractures.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Records were reviewed for demographics, hematologic markers, transfusion rates, operative times, and postoperative complications. Variables were assessed with a χ or Student T-test. Significance was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients were included (37 reamed and 28 unreamed), with a mean age of 76.2 years and mean body mass index of 25.1. Between the reamed and unreamed groups, respectively, mean nail size was 11.0 (SD 1.1) and 10.0 (SD 0.0), P < 0.001; mean blood loss was 209.1 mL (SD 177.5) and 195.7 mL (SD 151.5), P = 0.220; 55% (21/38), and 43% (12/28) were transfused, P = 0.319; operative time was 98.2 (SD 47.3) and 81.5 minutes (SD 40.7); P = 0.035. Changes in hemoglobin/hematocrit were not significant between the study groups. Two patients from the reamed group experienced implant failure due to femoral head screw cut out and returned to the operating room. Two patients from the unreamed group returned to operating room for proximal incision infection, without implant removal. One reamed patient and 2 unreamed patients died before 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Unreamed CMNs for geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures provide shorter operative times with no difference in perioperative complications. Both reamed and unreamed techniques are safe and effective measures for fixation of these fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Size of Intramedullary Fixation Affects Endochondral-Mediated Angiogenesis During Fracture Repair

OBJECTIVES

To explore the effect of intramedullary pin size on the biology of a healing fracture, specifically endochondral angiogenesis. We hypothesized that fracture fixation with a smaller pin would permit greater interfragmentary strain resulting in increased total amount of vascular endothelial growth factor within the callus and greater angiogenesis compared to fixation with a larger pin.

METHODS

Transverse mid-shaft femur fractures in 8-week-old mice were fixed with either a 23-gauge (G) or 30-G pin. Differences in interfragmentary strain at the fracture site were estimated between cohorts. A combination of histology, gene expression, serial radiography, and microcomputed tomography with and without vascular contrast agent were used to assess fracture healing and vascularity for each cohort.

RESULTS

Larger soft-tissue callus formation increased vascular endothelial growth factor-A expression, and a corresponding increase in vascular volume was observed in the higher strain, 30-G cohort. Radiographic analysis demonstrated earlier hard callus formation with greater initial interfragmentary strain, similar rates of union between pin size cohorts, yet delayed callus remodeling in mice with the larger pin size.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the stability conferred by an intramedullary nail influences endochondral angiogenesis at the fracture.

Bone Fracture Acute Phase Response-A Unifying Theory of Fracture Repair: Clinical and Scientific Implications

Bone fractures create five problems that must be resolved: bleeding, risk of infection, hypoxia, disproportionate strain, and inability to bear weight. There have been enormous advancements in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that resolve these problems after fractures, and in best clinical practices of repairing fractures. We put forth a modern, comprehensive model of fracture repair that synthesizes the literature on the biology and biomechanics of fracture repair to address the primary problems of fractures. This updated model is a framework for both fracture management and future studies aimed at understanding and treating this complex process. This model is based upon the fracture acute phase response (APR), which encompasses the molecular mechanisms that respond to injury. The APR is divided into sequential stages of "survival" and "repair." Early in convalescence, during "survival," bleeding and infection are resolved by collaborative efforts of the hemostatic and inflammatory pathways. Later, in "repair," avascular and biomechanically insufficient bone is replaced by a variable combination of intramembranous and endochondral ossification. Progression to repair cannot occur until survival has been ensured. A disproportionate APR-either insufficient or exuberant-leads to complications of survival (hemorrhage, thrombosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, infection, death) and/or repair (delayed- or non-union). The type of ossification utilized for fracture repair is dependent on the relative amounts of strain and vascularity in the fracture microenvironment, but any failure along this process can disrupt or delay fracture healing and result in a similar non-union. Therefore, incomplete understanding of the principles herein can result in mismanagement of fracture care or application of hardware that interferes with fracture repair. This unifying model of fracture repair not only informs clinicians how their interventions fit within the framework of normal biological healing but also instructs investigators about the critical variables and outputs to assess during a study of fracture repair.

Nonunion fracture healing: Evaluation of effectiveness of demineralized bone matrix and mesenchymal stem cells in a novel sheep bone nonunion model

Nonunion treatment has a high rate of success, although recalcitrant nonunion may determine the need for amputation. Therefore, new treatment options are continuously investigated in order to further reduce the risk of nonunion recurrence. This study aimed to (a) develop a new large animal model for bone atrophic nonunion and (b) compare the efficacy of demineralized bone matrix (DBM) and DBM in combination with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the new nonunion model. The new model consists of a noncritical, full-thickness segmental defect created in the sheep tibia, stabilized by an intramedullary nail, and involves the creation of a locally impaired blood supply achieved through periosteum excision and electrocauterization of the stump ends. Six weeks after defect creation, lack of hard tissue callus and established nonunion was observed in all operated tibiae both by radiographic and clinical evaluation. Nonunion was treated with allogeneic DBM or autologous MSC cultivated on DBM particles (DBM + MSC) for 1 day before implantation. Twelve weeks after treatment, radiographic, microtomographic, histologic, and histomorphometric analysis showed the formation of bone callus in DBM group, whereas the fracture healing appeared at an early stage in DBM + MSC group. Torsional strength and stiffness of the DBM group appeared higher than those of DBM + MSC group, although the differences were not statistically significant. In conclusion, a new sheep bone nonunion model resembling the complexity of the clinical condition was developed. DBM is an effective option for nonunion treatment, whereas MSC do not improve the healing process when cultivated on DBM particles before implantation.

Neuropathic Minimally Invasive Surgeries (NEMESIS):: Percutaneous Diabetic Foot Surgery and Reconstruction

Patients with peripheral neuropathy associated with ulceration are the nemesis of the orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. Diabetic foot syndrome is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, and its prevalence continues to increase at an alarming rate. Poor wound healing, nonunion, infection, and risk of amputation contribute to the understandable caution toward this patient group. Significant metalwork is required to hold these technically challenging deformities. Neuropathic Minimally Invasive Surgeries is an addition to the toolbox of management of the diabetic foot. It may potentially reduce the risk associated with large wounds and bony correction in this patient group.

Reamed versus unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of femoral fractures: A meta-analysis of prospective randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Intramedullary nailing is commonly used for treating femoral shaft fractures, one of the most common long bone fractures in adults. The reamed intramedullary nail is considered the standard implant for femoral fractures. This meta-analysis was performed to verify the superiority of reamed intramedullary nailing over unreamed intramedullary nailing in fractures of the femoral shaft in adults. Subgroup analysis of implant failure and secondary procedure was also performed.

METHODS

Electronic literature databases were used to identify relevant publications and included MEDLINE (Ovid interface), EMBASE (Ovid interface), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; Wiley Online Library). The versions available on January 30, 2016, were utilized. Only human studies, which were designed as randomized controlled clinical trials, were included. Two authors independently evaluated the quality of original research publications and extracted data from the studies that met the criteria.

RESULTS

Around 8 randomized controlled trials involving 1078 patients were included. Reamed intramedullary nailing was associated with shorter time to consolidation of the fracture (SMD = -0.62, 95% CI = -0.89 to -0.35, P < 0.00001), lower secondary procedure rate (OR = 0.25, 95% CI 0.10-0.62, P = 0.003), lower nonunion rate (OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.05-0.40, P < 0.01), and lower delayed-union rate (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.07-0.49, P < 0.01) compared to unreamed intramedullary nailing. The 2 groups showed no significant differences in risk of implant failure (OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.14-1.74, P = 0.27), mortality risk (OR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.19-4.68, P = 0.94), risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS; OR = 1.55, 95% CI 0.36-6.57, P = 0.55), or blood loss (SMD = 0.57, 95% CI = -0.22 to 1.36, P = 0.15).

CONCLUSION

Reamed intramedullary nailing is correlated with shorter time to union and lower rates of delayed-union, nonunion, and reoperation. Reamed intramedullary nailing did not increase blood loss or the rates of ARDS, implant failure, and mortality compared to unreamed intramedullary nailing. Therefore, the treatment of femoral fractures using reamed intramedullary nailing is recommended.

How much is too much? A guide to appropriately bending ball tip guide wires when using intramedullary nails for the treatment of lower extremity long bone fractures

INTRODUCTION

This study was to determine the angle of bend that can be placed in a ball-tip guide wire while still allowing passage of reamers and nails of several commonly utilized nailing systems.

METHODS

Ball-tip guide wires, opening reamer tips, femoral nails, and tibial nails were collected from several manufacturers. Guide wires were incrementally bent 3 cm from the tip and passed through the reamer tip, tibial nail, and femoral nail until unable to pass.

RESULTS

All systems tested demonstrated that the reamer, with its relative smaller diameter cannula as compared to the nails themselves, determined the smallest tolerable bend to be able to pass the bent guide wire. The bend angle tolerated by reamer tips was on average 7° (4-9°). The bend angle tolerated by femoral nails was more consistent between the tested systems and was on average 15.5° (12-18°). The bend angle tolerated by tibial nails had the most variability between manufacturers and was on average 16° (13-21°).

DISCUSSION

Knowing the degree of guide wire bend which is tolerated can save time in equipment preparation as well as allow one to pre-bend the guide wire and know the intramedullary nail and/or reamers will likely pass. We hope the information provided in this work increases awareness of the potential technical issues with guide wire over-bending and that surgeons may err on the side of minimizing the bend in order to save time in the OR, decrease frustration and eliminate intraoperative complications that can occur.

Reamed Intramedullary Nailing has an Adverse Effect on Bone Regeneration During the Distraction Phase in Tibial Lengthening

BACKGROUND

The lengthening over nail (LON) technique has gained popularity because it enables shorter periods of external fixation, prevents deformities during lengthening, and reduces the risk of refracture after removal of the frame compared with the classic Ilizarov method. However, it is not clear if the violation of endosteal blood supply by reamed intramedullary nailing in the LON technique has a negative effect on bone regeneration or a positive effect by compensatory enhancement of periosteal circulation.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purposes of this study were to (1) compare the amount of regenerate bone during the distraction phase between two tibial lengthening techniques, the LON technique and lengthening and then nail (LATN) technique; and (2) compare callus shape at the end of the distraction phase using the classification of Li et al.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study comparing two treatment groups. Between September 2011 and June 2013, 120 patients underwent bilateral lower leg lengthening for familial short stature with either the LON or LATN technique, and were considered potentially eligible for inclusion in this retrospective, comparative study. During this same period, LON and LATN techniques were used in other patient populations, but all patients with familial short stature were considered for inclusion in the study. The specific contraindications for LON were diameter of the isthmus of the tibia narrower than 8 mm, length of the tibia shorter than 270 mm, and alignment of the lower extremity in valgus; in patients without these specific contraindications to LON, patients were offered either LATN or LON after counseling regarding the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. The proposed advantages of LATN were shorter healing index and more stable internal fixation which might lead to earlier full weightbearing, whereas proposed disadvantages were a greater chance for deep infection, more deformity during lengthening, and subsequently longer external fixator period for correction. The groups were comparable in terms of age, sex distribution, smoking history, BMI, distraction rate, and final length gain. A longer period of external fixation was necessary in the LATN group, related to the relative stability of the segment without an intramedullary nail. Patients with tibial lengthening with the LON technique (31 patients, 62 tibiae) were compared with patients who had the LATN technique (89 patients, 178 tibiae) regarding the amount of bone regeneration at the anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral cortices of the lengthened area for each at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively using a pixel value ratio method. In addition, both groups were compared for callus shape and type at the end of the distraction phase (LON, 3.4 ± 0.06 months; LATN, 4.2 ± 0.05 months).

RESULTS

The pixel value ratios of the anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral cortices in the LON and LATN groups were 0.78 ± 0.06 and 0.74 ± 0.05; 0.82 ± 0.08 and 0.76 ± 0.05; 0.75 ± 0.06 and 0.72 ± 0.05; and 0.85 ± 0.06 and 0.82 ± 0.06, respectively at 4 weeks postoperatively(p value > 0.500 for all); 0.75 ± 0.05 and 0.77 ± 0.04; 0.78 ± 0.05 and 0.89 ± 0.04; 0.73 ± 0.05 and 0.82 ± 0.05; and 0.78 ± 0.06 and 0.88 ± 0.03, respectively at 8 weeks postoperatively (p value < 0.001 for the posterior, medial, and lateral cortices); 0.72 ± 0.05 and 0.76 ± 0.03; 0.75 ± 0.07 and 0.89 ± 0.03; 0.71 ± 0.05 and 0.82 ± 0.03; and 0.78 ± 0.06 and 0.91 ± 0.03, respectively at 12 weeks postoperatively (p value < 0.001 for the posterior, medial, and lateral cortices). A greater percentage of tibiae having the generally favored fusiform-shaped callus were seen with the LATN technique (61 of 178 segments) than with the LON technique (four of 62 segments; p < 0.001). There were no tibia showing the inferior concave, lateral, or central-shaped callus with the LATN technique, whereas eight tibiae (eight of 62 segments) showed concave-shaped callus with the LON technique (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The potentially negative effect on callus regeneration from the concomitant use of reamed intramedullary nailing during the LON technique should not be overlooked. Based on our study, LATN may be a better choice for patients willing to accept the longer period of external fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Management of a humeral shaft non-union after a Gustilo III C fracture

A 25-year-old man was admitted to our Department with an open humeral shaft fracture (Gustilo III C); two large wounds were noticed with ulnar artery and median nerve completely dissected. Initial primary treatment included irrigation, debridement and fracture stabilization with a monolateral external fixator followed by vascular and nerve repair and wound closure. At 6 months follow up the patient was able to use his arm without any painful stimuli and a CT scan showed the presence of postero-medial callus formation. Consequently, the external fixator was removed and the patient was discharged to physiotherapy. After 7 months, the patient presented with severe pain and functional impairment with no history of trauma. X rays showed recent re-fracture on a background of oligotrophic nonunion. Revision surgery included debridement of the non-union bone edges, reaming of the medullary canal and insertion of a humeral nail. Six months later osseous healing was noted with complete restoration of shoulder and elbow movement and partial recovery of the median nerve.

Bisphosphonates and their influence on fracture healing: a systematic review

Bisphosphonates are commonly used in osteoporosis, but concerns have been raised about possible negative effects on fracture healing. We systematically reviewed the literature and found that bisphosphonates significantly prolong union times of distal radius fractures but not femoral fractures. The timing of bisphosphonate introduction does not affect fracture union time.

INTRODUCTION

Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed drugs in patients suffering from and at higher risk of developing osteoporosis. However, concerns have been raised as to whether these drugs have a negative effect on fracture healing. The aim of this systematic review is to explore further these concerns.

METHODS

A literature review was performed in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. All relevant articles found via MEDLINE, Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE and Google Scholar were screened. Studies with information on bisphosphonates' effect on fracture healing in humans were included and systematically reviewed.

RESULTS

Patients with distal radius fractures on bisphosphonates had a significantly longer union time compared with controls, but not patients with femoral fractures. No correlation between timing of bisphosphonate introduction and union time for fractures was found. Although one study reported a higher humeral non-union associated with bisphosphonate introduction following the fracture, there was no evidence that bisphosphonate introduction, timing or dose resulted in a significant delay in union following other fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review has shown that bisphosphonates significantly prolong union times of distal radius fractures. Some clinical findings are in contrast with preclinical studies highlighting the need to develop better animal models to study osteoporosis, treatment and fracture healing. There is also a need for more well-constructed studies looking at the clinical effect of bisphosphonate on fracture healing in a large number of patients. These robust studies need to look at union time and non-union rates as a function of duration and dose of different bisphosphonates in different upper and lower limb fractures.

Meta-analysis of reamed versus unreamed intramedullary nailing for open tibial fractures

Background

Open fractures of the tibial diaphysis are usually caused by high-energy trauma and associated with severe bone and soft tissue injury. Reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing are often used for treatment of tibial injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of reamed versus unreamed intramedullary nailing for open tibial fractures (OTF).

Methods

A meta-analysis was conducted according to the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using databases containing the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMbase, Chinese Biomedical Database, Chinese VIP information, and WanFang Database. Randomized and semi-randomized controlled clinical trials of both reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for OTF treatment were analyzed using Reviewer Manager (RevMan5.0) software.

Results

A total of 695 references were initially identified from the selected databases. However, only four studies were assessed, matching all the eligibility criteria conducted by two independent reviewers. The result showed that there was no statistical difference in healing rate, secondary surgery rate, implant failure rate, osteofascial compartment syndrome, and infection during the postoperative period between reamed and unreamed nails in OTF.

Conclusions

Findings of this study suggest that there was no statistical difference between reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing in clinical treatment of OTF. However, the result of this meta-analysis should be cautiously accepted due to some limitations, and further studies are still needed.

Nailing treatment in bone transport complications

A series of cases of reamed intramedullary nailings carried out after complications in regenerated bone and docking site had occurred in bone transport is presented here. Nine patients (femur = 5; tibia = 4) had treatment with resection after open fractures or infection and underwent bone transport. The mean length of regenerated bone was 9.5 cm (range 6–18 cm). After bone transport, the fixator remained in place for a mean period of 12.8 months (range 8–24 months). In six cases (femur 4; tibia 2), the thickness of the cortical wall of the regenerate column was insufficient, and in two of these, there was, in addition, nonunion of the docking site. In the two tibial cases, nailing was carried out shortly after the fixator had been removed and after refracture of the regenerated bone had occurred due to insufficient cortical thickness. In one femur, nailing was carried out for nonunion of the docking site. Follow-up involved clinical and X-ray checks. The mean follow-up was 3.9 years (range 2–6 years). In all cases, union and with complete corticalization of the regenerate column was observed at an average 6 months after nailing (range 4–11 months). Infection occurred in one tibia 4 months after nailing. The infection was treated with antibiotics, and the nail was subsequently removed. We conclude that nailing is a potential solution for regenerated bone and docking site problems but, if used after prolonged periods of external fixation, may necessitate antibiotic therapy for at least 10 days after the fixator has been removed.

Complications and functional recovery in treatment of femoral shaft fractures with unreamed intramedullary nailing

INTRODUCTION

Fracture of the femoral shaft is a common fracture encountered in orthopedic practice. In the 1939, Küntscher introduced the concept of intramedullary nailing for stabilization of long bone fractures. Intramedullary nailing has revolutionized the treatment of fractures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 37 male patients and 13 female patients, averaged 39 +/- 20.5 years (range, 16 to 76 years).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

There were 31 left femurs and 21 right femurs fractured. 46 fractures were the result of blunt trauma. Low energy trauma was the cause of fractures in six patients, of which five in elderly females. 49 fractures were closed. Healing time given in weeks was 19.36 +/- 6.1. The overall healing rate was 93.6%. There were three (6.25%) major complications nonunion. There were one (2%) delayed union, one (2%) rotational malunion and no infection. The shortening of 1 cm were in two patients. Antercurvatum of 10 degrees was found in one patient. There was no statistically significant reduction of a motion in the hip and knee (p < 0.05). There was statistically significant in the thigh (knee extensors) muscle weakness (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

: Intramedullary nailing is the treatment of choice for femoral shaft fractures.

Fracture near press-on interlocking enhances callus mineralisation in a sheep midshaft tibia osteotomy model

INTRODUCTION

Factors which impair fracture healing after intramedullary (IM) nailing of long bone fractures range from surgical and biological factors to mechanical parameters. Mechanical parameters known to prolong bony consolidation are share forces at the site of the fracture. Fracture near press-on interlocking reduces share forces directly at the fracture site and is hypothesised to enhance callus mineralisation. A sheep model of midshaft tibia osteotomies evaluates the technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fracture near interlocking was achieved by surfacing a custom made nail with special hutches that enable firm screw seating on top of the nail ("golf ball" structure). Virtual (fine element analysis (FEA)) and biomechanical pilot tests were completed before in vivo application in 12 adult female German black sheep. Midshaft tibia osteotomy was performed creating a subcritical 7 mm gap for delay in union. One group (n=6) was treated with reamed IM nailing employing the custom made nail and in addition to proximal and distal standard interlocking a fracture near press on interlocking was employed. A second group of six sheep without additional press on interlocking served as control. 10 weeks after operation the quality of fracture healing was determined by micro-CT.

RESULTS

The FEA showed that axial loading up to 4000N did not lead to implant fatigue. Fracture near press on interlocking led to significantly more callus mineralisation compared to the conventional interlocking procedure (0.567 g/cm(3) ± 0.106 g/cm(3) versus 0.434 g/cm(3) ± 0.0836 g/cm(3), p=0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture near press on interlocking increases callus mineralisation in a subcritical osteotomy model in sheep. The results indicate that the reduction of share forces at the fracture site after nailing procedures may be effective in reducing the time until bony consolidation.

Expandable intramedullary nails in lower limb trauma: a systematic review of clinical and radiological outcomes

This study systematically reviews the evidence-base for the use of expandable nails in the treatment of acute diaphyseal fractures of the lower limb. Both electronic and hand searches were undertaken of the published and grey literature to 1 December 2011. A total of 154 citations were identified, of which 15 were deemed suitable and assessed with the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme tool. A total of 625 nailing procedures were performed in 620 patients: 279 femoral and 346 tibial nails. The expandable nail was found to be significantly quicker to insert than interlocked nails (p < 0.05), and the total incidence of non-union or other complication was 13 and 14 % for expandable femoral and tibial nails, respectively. Notable complications with the expandable nail included fracture propagation on nail inflation in 2.5 % and post-operative shortening in 3.3 %. Device failure secondary to problems with the expansion mechanism was seen in 2.9 %. The rate of non-union and infection following expandable nailing was 3.1 and 1.4 %, respectively. Despite promising initial results, there remains a paucity of good quality studies to support the use of expandable nails over interlocked nails for the treatment of acute diaphyseal fractures of the lower limb.

Reamed versus minimally reamed nailing: a prospectively randomised study of 100 patients with closed fractures of the tibia

It is generally accepted that in tibial fractures the results of reamed intramedullary nailing are better than those of unreamed. However, it is not known whether the clinical effects of reaming are cumulative or if minimal reaming would induce the same beneficial effects as more extensive reaming. This international multicentre study has investigated the effects of different degrees of reaming. 100 patients with closed diaphyseal tibial fractures were prospectively randomised in two centres. Method of treatment was reamed nailing up to 12 mm inserting an 11 mm tibial nail (n: 50), and minimally reamed nailing up to 10 mm inserting a 9 mm tibial nail (n: 50). All patients included in the study had follow-up studies at 4,8,12,16,26 and 52 weeks after trauma. Sixty-six male and thirty-four female patients with an average age of 37.5 years were included in the study. Gender, age, and injury side were identical in both groups. There was no significant difference of complications in the two methods. The rate of deep wound infections was higher in the reamed group (n: 3) versus the minimally reamed group (n: 1). Union occurred earlier in the reamed group (17 wks) compared to patients with minimally reamed nailing (19 wks), and there were more patients with reamed nails in whom the fracture had healed by 16 weeks (57%) versus the minimally reamed group (43%), however, this was not statistically significant. Pain scales were similar for both groups from week 4 to week 52. A considerable number of outcome parameters including knee and ankle function, as well as the comparison of time intervals to restart certain activities, and return to work showed no significant statistical difference between the two groups. However, patients of the extensive reamed group returned earlier to running, training, and normal sports activities. This study found no significant evidence that more extensive reaming gave better results, however there seemed to be a tendency of more aggressive reaming to induce earlier fracture healing with a tendency of faster recovery times.

Growth factor release in extra- and intramedullary osteosynthesis following tibial fracture

INTRODUCTION

Recent studies indicate alterations of local and systemic growth factor level during fracture healing. As a result, osteogenic and angiogenic growth factors allow us to monitor fracture healing on a molecular level. We hypothesised that closed intramedullary (IM) reaming and nail fixation, in contrast to open reduction and internal plate fixation (ORIF), could exert an effect on the cellular elements present in the intramedullary canal, leading to increased release of mediators. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether different osteosynthesis techniques influence the released quantity of cytokines.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 34 patients with tibia fractures treated with IM fixation and 19 patients treated with ORIF were included in the study. In addition to clinical and radiological examination, serum concentrations of transforming growth factor beta 1(TGF-β1), macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were analysed at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

Expression of TGF-β1 and M-CSF was increased during the first 2 weeks of fracture healing in patients treated with the IM fixation technique compared with those treated by ORIF. After 24 weeks, M-CSF levels in patients with IM fixation were clearly higher. Conversely, VEGF levels were higher during the first 2 weeks of fracture healing in patients treated by ORIF compared with IM fixation. However, these results were not significant.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that 1 week after surgery neither reamed IM fixation nor ORIF of the tibia could increase the expression of VEGF, M-CSF and TGF-β1 in its favour.

Beaming the columns for Charcot diabetic foot reconstruction: a retrospective analysis

This study explored the concept of "beaming" the medial and lateral longitudinal columns as a variation of the current technique for hindfoot and Lisfranc Charcot reconstruction. We reviewed radiographic changes and outcomes for patients who underwent Charcot foot reconstruction at our facility over the 14-year period from January 1994 to January 2008. Beaming was performed on 71 Charcot foot deformities in 70 patients, 22 (31%) of which displayed an isolated hindfoot deformity, 20 (28%) an isolated Lisfranc deformity, and 29 (41%) with a combination of hindfoot and Lisfranc deformities. The average radiographic follow up was 31.00 ± 22.97 months. Group 1 consisted of reconstructions that involved only medial and lateral column beams and showed significant improvements in radiographic alignment between the preoperative and postoperative measurements, including Meary's angle (P < .001), calcaneal inclination angle (P = .004), tarsometatarsal angle (P = .002), talonavicular angle (P = .035), and the calcaneocuboid angle (P = .006). Group 2, which consisted of reconstructions that involved medial and lateral column beams and either a subtalar arthroereisis (n = 18) or a subtalar joint fusion (n = 10), also showed significant improvements, including Meary's angle (P < .001), tarsometatarsal angle (P < .001), talonavicular angle (P = .002), and the calcaneocuboid angle (P < .001), although calcaneal inclination did not statistically significantly change (P = .054). In both groups, the surgical intervention maintained the correction and was useful for Charcot reconstruction. Complications included pin tract infections, broken pin, osteomyelitis, transfer lesions, and ulcerations.

Effects of low power laser irradiation on bone healing in animals: a meta-analysis

Purpose

The meta-analysis was performed to identify animal research defining the effects of low power laser irradiation on biomechanical indicators of bone regeneration and the impact of dosage.

Methods

We searched five electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Randomised Clinical Trials) for studies in the area of laser and bone healing published from 1966 to October 2008. Included studies had to investigate fracture healing in any animal model, using any type of low power laser irradiation, and use at least one quantitative biomechanical measures of bone strength. There were 880 abstracts related to the laser irradiation and bone issues (healing, surgery and assessment). Five studies met our inclusion criteria and were critically appraised by two raters independently using a structured tool designed for rating the quality of animal research studies. After full text review, two articles were deemed ineligible for meta-analysis because of the type of injury method and biomechanical variables used, leaving three studies for meta-analysis. Maximum bone tolerance force before the point of fracture during the biomechanical test, 4 weeks after bone deficiency was our main biomechanical bone properties for the Meta analysis.

Results

Studies indicate that low power laser irradiation can enhance biomechanical properties of bone during fracture healing in animal models. Maximum bone tolerance was statistically improved following low level laser irradiation (average random effect size 0.726, 95% CI 0.08 - 1.37, p 0.028). While conclusions are limited by the low number of studies, there is concordance across limited evidence that laser improves the strength of bone tissue during the healing process in animal models.

Reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of open and closed tibial fractures: a subgroup analysis of randomised trials

The choice between reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of open and closed tibial fractures is an ongoing controversy. We carried out a comprehensive search strategy. Six eligible randomised controlled trials were included. Three reviewers independently assessed methodological quality and extracted outcome data. Analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.0. The results showed lower risks of tibial fracture nonunion and implant failures with reamed nails compared to unreamed nails in closed tibial fractures [relative risk (RR): 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.21-0.89, P = 0.008 for nonunion and RR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.22-0.56, P < 0.0001 for implant failures], but no statistical differences in risk reduction of malunion, compartment syndrome, embolism and infection. Our results suggested no statistical differences in risk reduction of all the complications evaluated between reamed and unreamed nails in open tibial fractures. In conclusion, our study recommended reamed nails for the treatment of closed tibial fractures. But the choice for open tibial fractures remains uncertain.

Intramedullary nailing of the femur: current concepts concerning reaming

Intramedullary fixation has advanced to the standard of care for fractures of the femoral shaft. Current controversies center on whether to prepare the intramedullary canal by reaming, particularly in certain subsets of patients. As understanding of the local and systemic effects of reaming deepens, there is a role for maximizing the benefits of intramedullary preparation before nail fixation, while attempting to minimize the major disadvantages of this technique. Several treatment strategies have emerged to address the downsides of intramedullary reaming. The purpose of this review is to discuss the history and current knowledge of intramedullary reaming with respect to problems associated with its use and the evolution of treatment modalities and their clinical applicability for orthopaedic trauma care.

Human hypertrophic nonunion tissue contains mesenchymal progenitor cells with multilineage capacity in vitro

Hypertrophic nonunion usually results from insufficient fracture stabilization. Therefore, most hypertrophic nonunions simply require the stabilization of the nonunion site. However, the reasons why union occurs without treating the nonunion site directly is not well understood biologically. In this study, we hypothesized that the intervening tissue at the hypertrophic nonunion site (nonunion tissue) could serve as a reservoir of mesenchymal progenitor cells and investigated whether the cells derived from nonunion tissue had the capacity for multilineage mesenchymal differentiation. After nonunion tissue was obtained, it was cut into strips and cultured. Homogenous fibroblastic adherent cells were obtained. Flow cytometry revealed that the adherent cells were consistently positive for mesenchymal stem cell related markers CD13, CD29, CD44, CD90, CD105, CD166, and negative for the hematopoietic markers CD14, CD34, CD45, and CD133, similar to control bone marrow stromal cells. In the presence of lineage-specific induction factors, the adherent cells differentiated in vitro into osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic cells. These results demonstrated for the first time that hypertrophic nonunion tissue contains multilineage mesenchymal progenitor cells. This suggests that hypertrophic nonunion tissue plays an important role during the healing process of hypertrophic nonunion by serving as a reservoir of mesenchymal cells that are capable of transforming into cartilage and bone forming cells.

Innovations in osteosynthesis and fracture care

Over the years giant steps have been made in the evolution of fracture fixation and the overall clinical care of patients. Better understanding of the physiological response to injury, bone biology, biomechanics and implants has led to early mobilisation of patients. A significant reduction in complications during the pre-operative and post-operative phases has also been observed, producing better functional results. A number of innovations have contributed to these improved outcomes and this article reports on the advances made in osteosynthesis and fracture care.

Exchange nailing for aseptic nonunion of femoral shaft: a retrospective cohort study for effect of reaming size

BACKGROUND

Exchange nailing has been the favored method to treat aseptic nonunions of the femoral shaft. The recommended amount of over-reaming is at least 2 mm. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the effectiveness of nonunion treatment is greatly reduced with less than 2 mm of over-reaming.

METHODS

Aseptic nonunions of the femoral shaft were treated by exchange nailing with 1 mm (n = 37) or at least 2 mm (n = 44) of over-reaming. Union rates, union periods, and complications were compared. Indications for exchange nailing were aseptic nonunions of the femoral shaft with an inserted intramedullary nail, shortening of less than 1.5 cm, and a fracture gap of less than 5 mm.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 3.6 years (range, 1.1-7.1 years), union rates were 31 (91.2%) of 34 nonunions with over-reaming of 1 mm and 37 (92.5%) of 40 nonunions with over-reaming of 2 mm or more (p = 0.32). The mean union periods were 4.4 months (range, 2.5-8 months) and 4.4 months (range, 3-8 months), respectively (p = 0.83). Except for persistent nonunions, no significant complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Exchange nailing can be considered the first choice to treat aseptic nonunions of the femoral shaft. The diameter of the new intramedullary nail should be as large as possible to reinforce the mechanical strength of the repair. The osteogenic potential stimulated by the reaming of cancellous bone graft was similar with over-reaming of 1 mm and with over-reaming of 2 mm or more.

Young, adult, and old rats have similar changes in mRNA expression of many skeletal genes after fracture despite delayed healing with age

Genes active in fracture healing are not well understood. Because age slows skeletal repair, the change in gene expression between animals of differing ages may illuminate novel pathways important to this healing response. To explore this, 6-, 26-, and 52-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to mid-diaphyseal femoral fracture with intramedullary fixation. The fracture callus was collected at 0, 0.4 (3 days), 1, 2, 4, or 6 weeks after fracture. RNA was extracted and pooled between two animals for each sample. Three samples were done for each time point for each age for a total of 54 Affymetrix U34A GeneChip microarrays. Of the 8700 genes on each array, 3300 were scored as present. Almost all of these genes were affected by femoral fracture with either upregulation or downregulation in the 6 weeks after fracture. Upregulated genes included markers for matrix genes for both cartilage and bone, osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts, fibroblasts, and mast cells. Downregulated genes included genes related to blood cell synthesis. Nearly all genes presently associated with bone metabolism showed the same response to fracture healing regardless of the age of the animal. In conclusion, skeletal fracture led to similar changes in RNA expression for most skeletal genes despite the delay in the formation of bone to bridge the fracture gap in old rats. Defects in the healing of skeletal trauma in older rats may lie in systems not normally studied by skeletal biologists.

Reaming during anterograde femoral nailing: is it worth it?

A systematic review was performed to assess the relative merits of reamed and unreamed antegrade femoral nailing. To be included, a study had to be prospective, randomised or pseudorandomised, comparing reamed and unreamed antegrade femoral nailing in adults. Where more than one study from the same institution was available, only the study with longest follow-up was included. A literature search found 2044 possible articles. Of these, eight studies compared reamed and unreamed femoral nailing. The methodology of these articles was independently assessed by all the three authors. Five studies met the inclusion criteria. Each outcome measure tested was assessed for heterogeneity. If significant heterogeneity was present, the data were not combined. If there was no significant heterogeneity, a combined odds ratio or weighted mean difference was calculated using a fixed effects model, and a Z-test was performed to test the overall effect. Six hundred and forty-seven femoral fractures (315 reamed; 332 unreamed) were entered into the included studies. Unreamed nailing was quicker and associated with significantly less blood loss (P < 0.00001). Reaming significantly reduced the time to union (P = 0.00001), non-union (P = 0.002), delayed union (P = 0.005), technical problems (P = 0.01) and reoperation rate (P = 0.001). The use of reamed femoral nails gives significant advantages over unreamed femoral nails.

Should the tibia be reamed when nailing?

A systematic review was performed to assess reamed and unreamed tibial nailing. Only prospective, randomised studies comparing reamed and unreamed tibial nailing in adults were included. A literature search found 1200 possible articles. There were seven comparative studies. These articles were independently assessed by all three authors. Three studies met the inclusion criteria. Each outcome measure tested was assessed for heterogeneity. If significant heterogeneity was present, data from the studies was not combined. If there was no significant heterogeneity, a combined odds ratio was calculated using a fixed effects model and a Z-test was performed to test the overall effect. Two hundred and ninety-one tibial shaft fractures were entered into the included studies. Two hundred and eighty (96%) were followed up (148 reamed; 132 unreamed). There was an increased non-union rate when the tibia was not reamed (p = 0.02). Screw breakage was more common in the unreamed group (p<0.0001). This study could find little difference in the incidence of other complications following reamed or unreamed tibial nailing.

Human reaming debris: a source of multipotent stem cells

The biological characteristics of human reaming debris (HRD) generated in the course of surgical treatment of long bone diaphyseal fractures and nonunions are still a matter of dispute. Therefore, the objective of the present investigation has been to characterize the intrinsic properties of human reaming debris in vitro. Samples of reaming debris harvested from 12 patients with closed diaphyseal fractures were examined ultrastucturally and were cultured under standard conditions. After a lag phase of 4-7 days, cells started to grow out from small bone fragments and established a confluent monolayer within 20-22 days. The cells were characterized according to morphology, proliferation capacity, cell surface antigen profile, and differentiation repertoire. The results reveal that human reaming debris is a source of multipotent stem cells which are able to grow and proliferate in vitro. The cells differentiate along the osteogenic pathway after induction and can be directed toward a neuronal phenotype, as has been shown morphologically and by the expression of neuronal markers after DMSO induction. These findings have prompted interest in the use of reaming debris-derived stem cells in cell and bone replacement therapies.

The Holland nail: a universal implant for fractures of the proximal femur and the femoral shaft

OBJECTIVE

To study the possibilities and outcomes for hip and femoral fractures treated with the universal Holland nail((R)).

DESIGN

Retrospective study from November 1998 to December 2001.

SETTING

Department of Traumatology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam.

SUBJECTS

112 patients with 115 fractures of the proximal femur and/or the femoral shaft, due to traumatic causes or to metastatic disease.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Implant possibilities of the Holland nail((R)) and observed complications.

RESULTS

110 patients presented for primary fracture treatment. Two patients were treated secondarily. In three patients, both femora were fractured. Nineteen patients suffered a pathological (impending) fracture. During operation we dealt with 27 minor difficulties. Postoperatively, in 80% of the cases full weight-bearing was allowed. Three patients developed wound infection. In follow-up, 14 patients were lost and two died. The remaining 77 patients (80 fractures) were available for follow-up with regard to fracture healing. Overall consolidation was achieved in 89% of the patients within 12 months. Two patients developed perforation of the femoral head, necessitating removal of the hip screws, and in two patients failure of the nail was seen. Overall, 19 patients needed a non-planned secondary intervention, of which 12 were deemed a minor procedure (e.g. 'dynamisation by distal screw removal').

CONCLUSION

The Holland nail((R)) is technically easy to use for any type of hip and femoral-shaft fracture.

Bone formation following intramedullary femoral reaming is decreased by indomethacin and antibodies to insulin-like growth factors

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to: 1). compare rates of in vitro bone formation following reamed and nonreamed intramedullary fixation in a murine model of femoral fracture healing; and 2). examine whether antibodies to insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I, IGF II, or indomethacin (an inhibitor of the inflammatory process) affect bone formation following intramedullary reaming.

DESIGN

Experimental study.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-four C57 black mice were randomized to two groups: reamed ( = 12), and nonreamed intramedullary nail insertion ( = 12).

INTERVENTION

In the reamed group, the femoral canals were successively reamed with 30-, 27-, 25-, and 23-gauge stainless steel pins and stabilized with a 27-gauge pin. In mice randomized to the nonreamed group, a 27-gauge pin was inserted. An external three-point bending force created a midshaft transverse femoral fracture. Seven days postsurgery, each mouse was killed, and the right femur was removed. Following pin removal, the callus was minced, the bone marrow was removed, and both were ultracentrifuged at 1200 rpm for 5 minutes. The supernatent was cocultured with 3-day-old murine calvarial cells in culture media. At day 5 of culture, reamed plasma and calvarial cell cocultures were exposed to either 1.0 micro g/mL of anti-IGF I, 1.0 micro g/mL of anti-IGF II, 2 micro M indomethacin, or served as controls (calvarial cells only). The cells were cultured for a total of 21 days.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The number of bone nodules was quantified by light microscopy.

RESULTS

Reamed pin insertion resulted in 4.1-fold and 8.9-fold increases in the mean number of bone nodules compared to pins inserted without reaming and controls, respectively (399 +/- 40.0 vs. 97.0 +/- 21.0, < 0.001). The positive effect of intramedullary reaming on bone nodule formation was reversed with the administration of antibodies to IGF I and IGF II. The addition of anti-IGF I or anti-IGF II to calvarial, or osteoblastlike, cells treated with supernatent from the callus and bone marrow of mice with prior intramedullary reaming resulted in significant declines in the mean number of bone nodules ( < 0.001). Specifically, treatment of osteoblastlike cells with anti-IGF I or anti-IGF II resulted in 7.0-fold and 5.4-fold declines in mean bone nodule formation compared to cells without such treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Intramedullary reaming prior to pin insertion resulted in a significantly greater number of bone nodules than pin insertion only. Antibodies to IGF I, IGF II, and indomethacin reversed the stimulatory effect of reaming on bone nodule formation, suggesting their role in modulating the course of fracture healing following intramedullary reaming.

Early weight-bearing after statically locked reamed intramedullary nailing of comminuted femoral fractures: is it a safe procedure?

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of early weight-bearing after statically locked reamed nailing of comminuted fractures of the femoral diaphysis, and to assess the rate of implant failure and fracture healing.

METHODS

Thirty consecutive patients with comminuted diaphyseal femur fractures (Winquist type II, III, and IV) were treated with statically locked reamed intramedullary nailing. Six patients were lost to follow-up, and the remaining 24 patients were followed at least 1 year. Early weight-bearing was allowed and encouraged in the first 2 weeks after the operation. The nail diameters were 13 mm in 16 patients, 12 mm in 6 patients, and 14 mm in 2 patients.

RESULTS

Most of the patients could start weight-bearing between the first 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively. None of the patients, except one, were using any walking aids at the second month postoperatively. All the fractures healed without any significant complications. Nail bending or breakage did not occur in any patients, but there was slight bending in one distal interlocking screw and one proximal interlocking screw. The fractures of the patients with bent screws healed uneventfully.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that early weight-bearing after reamed static interlocking nailing of Winquist type II, III, and IV femoral fractures is a safe and effective method, and the risk of implant failure does not preclude the procedure.

Healing of closed femoral shaft fractures treated with the AO unreamed femoral nail. A comparative study with the AO reamed femoral nail

Out of a hundred and seven closed femoral fractures, fifty-three were treated with the unreamed femoral nail and fifty-four with the reamed femoral nail. There were four delayed unions in the Unreamed Femoral Nail group (UFN) and three in the Reamed Femoral Nail group (RFN). There were no cases of infection or malunion. Implant failure was the cause of implant conversion in one patient of the UFN group. Healing time of the femoral fractures was 19.2 weeks in the UFN group and 19.6 weeks in the RFN group. Due to the significant decrease in operating time with the UFN (70 min) in comparison with the RFN (125 min) and the possible risk of posttraumatic pulmonary oedema (ARDS) with reaming techniques, the authors recommend the UFN for the treatment of acute closed femoral shaft fractures.