An evaluation of three current techniques of internal fixation for intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures of the hip.

The image intensifier has permitted the development of the technique of condylocephalic nailing for intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures of the femur. This comparison between the sliding compression screw and Ender nails confirms the advantage of decreased operative time and blood loss with Ender nails. Our results show a high incidence of union in external rotation with shortening in those patients treated with Ender nails as compared with the other techniques. Adherence to the principles of reduction in valgus and internal rotation while filling the femoral shaft with Ender nails with prebent anteversion should decrease this problem. Three weeks of postoperative skeletal traction is recommended for subtrochanteric fractures treated with Ender nails.