Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Aim: The purpose of this study was to study and compare the effectiveness and the disadvantages of intramedullary devices, i.e. short vs long pfn in the management of unstable IT fractures.
Methods: The present study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics and with trochanteric fractures was operated at our tertiary care hospital. Out of the 200 patients, Group a patients were operated with short Pfn and Group B were operated with long pfn. 
Results: Patients in both groups had an average age of 66.34±9.36 years and 64.32±8.42 years, with no significant difference (p = 0.632). Groups A and B included 62% females and 38% males, and 59% females and 41% men, respectively. The majority of patients were AO 31A-2.2. In group B, mean operating time was significantly lower than in group A (34.26±6.0 minutes vs. 42.36±8.16 minutes, p<0.001). Shortening (>1 cm) and varus malalignment indicated no significant difference between the two groups, however group B had somewhat lower rates than group A. PFNA had a slightly higher Harris hip score than PFN, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.555).
Conclusion: Use of Long PFN offers benefits over short PFN in terms of the reduced postoperative problems such peri implant fracture and anterior thigh discomfort & better functional result. Successful outcomes require fracture biomechanics knowledge, patient selection, preoperative planning, and accurate instrumentation.