Evaluation of functional recovery after intertrochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral nailing: a prospective cross-sectional study.

Dr. Kanukurthi   Kiran; Dr Kishore Kumar  Nagabandi; Dr. Sudhakar   Konda; Dr. Devireddy Venkat   Reddy

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2292

Authors

Dr. Kanukurthi Kiran Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Yadadri Bhongir, Telangana,
Dr. Kishore Kumar Nagabandi Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Quthbullapur, Telangana, India
Dr. Sudhakar Konda Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Nagarkurnool, Telangana, India
Dr. Devireddy Venkat Reddy Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Nagarkurnool, Telangana, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2292

Keywords:

Intertrochanteric fracture, proximal femoral nailing, functional recovery, Harris Hip Score, radiological union, postoperative outcomes

Abstract

Background:

Intertrochanteric fractures in older adults continue to pose a major challenge due to their association with reduced mobility, prolonged dependency, and increased morbidity. Proximal femoral nailing (PFN) has emerged as a preferred fixation method owing to its biomechanical stability and minimally invasive nature.

Aim:

To assess the functional outcomes, radiological union, and complication profile in patients with intertrochanteric fractures treated using proximal femoral nailing.

Methods:

This prospective cross-sectional study included 80 patients with radiologically confirmed intertrochanteric fractures managed with PFN. Baseline characteristics, AO/OTA fracture patterns, surgical timing, and early mobilisation status were documented. Radiological union was monitored at regular intervals. Functional outcomes were measured at six months using the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Complications were also recorded. Data were analysed descriptively and presented in structured tables.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 67.4 ± 9.8 years, and women accounted for 56% of the study population. AO/OTA 31-A2 fractures were the most common. Radiological union was achieved at 13.8 ± 2.4 weeks, with 90% consolidating within 16 weeks. Functional evaluation at six months revealed 40% excellent, 35% good, 17.5% fair, and 7.5% poor outcomes. Superficial infection occurred in 5% of cases, while minor implant-related complications were observed in 3.8%. No deep infections or implant failures were recorded.

Conclusion:

Proximal femoral nailing provides reliable fixation, predictable union, and favourable functional recovery in intertrochanteric fractures, with a low rate of complications. Early mobilisation and optimal implant positioning appear to support better long-term outcomes.

Recommendations:

Strengthening postoperative rehabilitation pathways, ensuring precise intraoperative screw placement, and initiating early weight-bearing under supervision can further enhance recovery. Wider adoption of patient-specific physiotherapy schedules, periodic functional assessment, and community-based fall-prevention programs may additionally reduce disability and improve overall quality of life in this population.

Author Biographies

Dr. Kanukurthi Kiran, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Yadadri Bhongir, Telangana,

MBBS, MS(Orthopaedics), serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics at Government Medical College, Yadadri Bhongir, Telangana, India. His clinical work focuses on the management of trauma, fracture fixation, and orthopaedic emergency care, with a growing interest in minimally invasive surgical techniques. He is actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, contributing to skill development and evidence-based orthopaedic training. His academic engagement includes participation in departmental research and initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1106-9948

Dr. Kishore Kumar Nagabandi, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Quthbullapur, Telangana, India

MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics at Government Medical College, Quthbullapur, Telangana, India. His clinical interests include the management of musculoskeletal trauma, intertrochanteric fractures, and lower-limb reconstruction procedures. He is actively engaged in academic teaching and skill-based training for medical undergraduates, while also contributing to departmental research activities. His work emphasises evidence-based orthopaedic practice and improving functional outcomes through meticulous surgical technique and structured postoperative care.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9493-4319

Dr. Sudhakar Konda, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Nagarkurnool, Telangana, India

MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics at Government Medical College, Quthbullapur, Telangana, India. His clinical practice encompasses trauma care, proximal femoral fracture management, and lower-limb orthopaedic procedures. He is actively involved in teaching undergraduate students and supporting clinical skill development within the department. His academic interests include functional outcomes after fracture fixation, optimisation of postoperative rehabilitation, and improving surgical precision through evidence-based orthopaedic practice.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9049-8803

Dr. Devireddy Venkat Reddy, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Nagarkurnool, Telangana, India

MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics at Government Medical College, Nagarkurnool, Telangana, India. He completed his MBBS followed by MS in Orthopaedics, building a strong academic foundation that supports his clinical and teaching roles. His professional interests include trauma care, fracture fixation techniques, and postoperative rehabilitation strategies. He is actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate training, contributes to departmental clinical services, and participates in research aimed at improving patient outcomes in a government tertiary-care setting. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5190-3368

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