Study on effectiveness of retrograde nailing with long intramedullary supracondylar nail for shaft and supracondylar fractures of femur

Introduction: Due to modern lifestyle changes, the incidence of distal femur fractures has risen and more so in association with shaft fractures of femur because of fast world and high velocity trauma occurring in road traffic accidents. Dilemma arises when we face distal third shaft and associated supracondylar or inter-condylar fracture of femur. The aim of this study is to remove the hesitancy of performing retrograde nailing by long IMSC nail without any complications. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 150 patients with fracture of femur shaft and supracondylar fractures was done. They were treated by using this technique, from January 2003-2017. These patients were followed up till fracture union & evaluated further postoperatively for finding its benefits. Results: In our study, the mean age of patients was 35 years. 65.3% were males and 34.7%% were females. The mode of injury in case of majority of the patients had RTA (road traffic accident) 93 patients (62%). In the present, surgical and technical related complications were encountered in 10 patients (6.7%). Our patients had a mean value of 80 points according to Neer score. Conclusions: We conclude that retrograde long IMSC nail is reliable as an alternative for conventional procedures like ante-grade nailing and plate fixation in femoral fracture shaft and supracondylar region. It is especially beneficial in conditions like osteoporosis, pregnancy & previous implant or prosthesis on ipsi-lateral side and ankylosed hip. Retrograde nailing can be done on simple radio-luscent top operating tables which are commonly available everywhere.