A Evaluation of Initial Treatment of Trochanteric Fractures using Gamma Nails
Background: Trochanteric fractures are extra-joint fractures, account for 55% of femoral proximal fractures. They often happen in the elderly with increased frequency due to age. Treatment experiences at 7A Military Hospital showed increased trochanteric fracture cases. To properly assess treatment effectiveness and select proper treatment methods, the study of "Evaluation of initial treatment of trochanteric fractures using gamma nails at 7A Military Hospital and made the conclusions of indications and applied techniques" was carried out. The study objectives are evaluating the initial treatment of trochanteric fractures using gamma nails at 7A Military Hospital and made the conclusions of indications and applied techniques. Methods and findings: nineteen patients diagnosed with traumatic trochanteric fractures and surgically treated with Gamma nails were monitored and evaluated for bone fusion, bone union, range of motion, limb shortening, and functional rehabilitation according to Merle D'Aubigné scale. Fourteen patients (82.35%) achieved proper bone union with the femoral neck-shaft angle of 1250 - 1300, three patients (17.65%) got slightly deviated bone union. Amongst patients aged under 60, 14/17 cases (82.35%) achieved "good" and "very good" functional rehabilitation, scored over 15 points according to Merle D΄aubigne Index; 3/17 cases (17.65%) got "average" recovery. Hip range of motion in 14 cases (82.35%) achieved "very good" (normal movement) or "good" (over 10% movement limitation) outcome, 3 cases had "average" movement (17.65%). Limb shortening of below 1cm took place in 10 patients (58.82%), 1 – 2 cm in 4 patients (23,53%) and over 3 cm in 3 patients (17.65%). Conclusions: The surgical treatment of trochanteric fractures using gamma nails yielded positive outcomes. Keywords: Gamma nails, trochanteric fractures, elderly, extra-joint.