Zickel nail fixation of bilateral subtrochanteric fractures.

The introduction of the Zickel nail has provided a significant advance in the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. The device allows early mobilization and a high rate of union. In a 24-year-old man, the device was used bilaterally for subtrochanteric fractures, thus obviating the need for prolonged hospitalization and promoting early ambulation, and return to work. It must be emphasized that a bilateral operation for subtrochanteric fracture is a formidable procedure but can be accomplished in an otherwise healthy individual.