The Partridge nylon cerclage: its use as a supplementary fixation of difficult femoral fractures in the elderly.

We report on our early experience with the use of the Partridge nylon cerclage. This system was employed as a supplementary fixation in 18 femoral fractures in elderly patients (average age, 78 years). Indications of its use were reduction of comminuted fragments and enhancement of the grip of the main fixation device on osteoporotic femora or in femora with a prosthesis in situ. All fractures but one healed primarily. At an average follow-up time of 25 months, 15 of the 18 patients were ambulatory. Radiographic review showed that the cerclage did not cause cortical avascularity and that none of the straps used failed. We concluded that the internal fixation of difficult femoral fractures in the elderly can be easily and effectively strengthened by the use of this cerclage system.