A dual telescoping lag screw nailing system for intertrochanteric fractures: retrospective analysis of clinical and radiologic outcomes

Abstract

Background and purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate whether this system is associated with a reduced rate of failure and complications in patients treated for proximal femoral fractures with intramedullary nailing. Materials and methods 742 Patients with AO-OTA 31-A intertrochanteric fractures were enrolled at a single Institution. Functional evaluation was assessed through the Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) instrument and Parker’s New Mobility Score (NMS). Radiological follow-up included the degree of the reduction according to the Baumgartner criteria, the Tip-Apex Distance, and the shortening of the telescoping screws and its lateral protrusion. Results Pre-operative mean FIM™ and NMS were 4.3 (range 1–9) and 98.7 (range 22–126), respectively. At the 12-month follow-up the average FIM™ and NMS were 95.3 (range 22–126) and 3.7 (range 1–9), respectively. Mean shortening of the lag screws was 4.3 mm (range 1–8) and mean lateral protrusion was 1.7 mm (range 0–3). 3 Cases (0.70%) of non-consolidation requiring reoperation were recorded. 1 Case (0.24%) of these cases was also characterized by nail breakage. No case of cut-out has been reported at our follow-up. Conclusions This dual telescoping nail system is effective and safe. The sliding of the telescoping screws within the barrel is able to decrease strain from the femoral head during weight bearing reducing the risk of cut-out.