A Comparative Study of Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation Versus Intertan Nail in the Treatment of Pertrochanteric Fractures in a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Intertrochanteric fractures (IT) are defined as fractures that occur between the greater and lesser trochanters of the proximal femur outside the femoral head. Most of the fractures are unstable. There are two common approaches used for IT fixation, including intramedullary nails and extramedullary fixations, using screws or plates. Internal fixation via these methods provides established benefits, such as immediate pain relief, rapid mobilization for the patient, accelerated rehabilitation, and maintenance of independent living capabilities. Various methods of internal fixation are present but we decided to compare the InterTan and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) due to a lack of research in Indian patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 52 patients with IT treated using InterTAN (27) and PFNA II (25) were included in the study, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, and the accompanying northern part of the country according to the inclusion criteria. Both groups were then clinically and radiologically followed for 2 years to evaluate outcomes. Results: The results revealed that patients were evaluated over 2 years using various criteria to compare the PFNA II and IT nail implants. Conclusion: This study concludes that the InterTan nail is a better option compared with the PFNA II in terms of the lesser cut-out rate, better reduction, and stable fixation in unstable IT in elderly patients with fewer complications. However, for patients with complex greater trochanter fractures, lateral cortex fractures of the proximal femur, or who are not fit candidates for surgery, the PFNA II implant may be a suitable treatment option due to its less operating time and simple design.