Trochanteric fractures treated with the Pugh nail: a study of 270 cases

Int Surg. 1991 Jul-Sep;76(3):194-8.

Abstract

We report a series of 270 intertrochanteric fractures of the femur which were treated with the Pugh nail in our department. We used it as a standard treatment of intertrochanteric fractures and lateral fractures of the femoral neck. The Pugh nail method is characterized by a simple technique, a low rate of complications, and early ambulation and weight-bearing, which is important for the mostly aged patients (average age: 81 years). 81% of the patients could be ambulized with weight-bearing within two weeks after operation. 79% of them were able to walk by themselves at discharge from hospital. The rate of complications was 17% without urinary infections. Mortality was 16%. Complications and mortality did not depend on the type of fracture but on the age of the patients and on concomitant diseases.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Bone Nails*
  • Early Ambulation
  • Femoral Neck Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Femoral Neck Fractures / rehabilitation
  • Femoral Neck Fractures / surgery*
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal / methods*
  • Hip Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Hip Fractures / rehabilitation
  • Hip Fractures / surgery*
  • Hip Joint / physiology
  • Humans
  • Radiography
  • Weight-Bearing / physiology