J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2021 Aug;56(4):326-333. 10.4055/jkoa.2021.56.4.326.

Factors Affecting the Period of Bone Union When Treating Femoral Fractures with a Retrograde Intramedullary Nail

• Kim BS
• Kim ST
• Shin S
• Jeon SM

• KMID: 2519124
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2021.56.4.326

Abstract

Purpose
A retrograde intramedullary nail is commonly used to treat femoral shaft and distal femur fractures. The authors analyzed the treatment results and the factors affecting the period of bone union for thirty-five patients treated with a retrograde intramedullary nail.
Materials and Methods
Thirty-five patients who could be followed up for more than twelve months after the treatment with retrograde intramedullary nailing were analyzed retrospectively. The treatment results and the relationship between the period of bone union and the patient’s age, sex, comminution of fracture, presence of open fracture, location of the fracture, and accompanying fractures were evaluated.
Results
The average bone union time was 4.50 months. The period of bone union was unaffected by the age, sex, location, and presence of open fractures but was affected by the presence of comminution and accompanying fractures.
Conclusion
Retrograde intramedullary nailing is effective for distal and shaft of fractures of the femur. The period of bone union is affected by the presence of comminution and accompanying fractures.

Keyword

femur; fracture; retrograde intramedullary nailing