FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF INTERTROCHANTERIC FEMUR FRACTURES MANAGED WITH PROXIMAL FEMORAL NAIL: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Intertrochanteric fractures of the femur are common orthopedic injuries, particularly among elderly individuals, and are associated with pain, immobility, functional disability, and increased morbidity. Proximal Femoral Nail fixation has become an important treatment modality because it provides biomechanical stability, permits early mobilization, and is especially useful in unstable fracture patterns. Aim: To evaluate the functional outcome and postoperative complications in patients with intertrochanteric femur fractures managed with Proximal Femoral Nail fixation. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedics during 2022 among 120 patients with intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with Proximal Femoral Nail fixation. Clinical profile, mode of injury, fracture classification, operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, radiological union, and functional outcome were assessed. Fractures were classified according to Boyd and Griffin classification. Functional outcome was evaluated using Harris Hip Score. Results: The mean age of participants was 66.2 ± 10.8 years. Male predominance was observed, and the majority of patients belonged to the 61–80-year age group. Trivial fall was the most common mode of injury. Boyd and Griffin Type II fractures were the most frequent pattern, followed by Type III fractures. The mean operative duration was 78.4 ± 12.6 minutes, mean blood loss was 132.8 ± 28.4 mL, and mean radiological union time was 14.6 ± 3.2 weeks. Good-to excellent functional outcome was observed in 90 (75.0%) patients. Delayed surgery, unstable fracture pattern, age above 80 years, and diabetes mellitus showed significant association with fair or poor functional outcome. Conclusion: Proximal Femoral Nail fixation provides satisfactory functional and radiological outcomes in intertrochanteric femur fractures. Early surgical intervention, stable fixation, careful postoperative monitoring, and structured rehabilitation contribute significantly to improved recovery and reduced complications.