To evaluate the efficacy of proximal femoral nail for intertrochanteric fracture.

From June 2001 to March 2005, 45 intertrochanteric fractures were treated with a proximal femoral nail for intertrochanteric fracture and followed-up at least one year. The average age was 71.3 years (34~91 years). The causes of fracture were slip down in 38 cases and fall down in 7 cases. Fractures were classified with AO classification; 20 cases in type A1, 22 cases in type A2 and 3 cases in type A3. Antirotational pin was used in 25 of 45 fractures according to fracture stability. Radiological result was determined with a union. Walking ability was evaluated in the last follow-up.

The fractures were fixed in anatomical position in 36 cases, in valgus position in 3 cases and varus position in 6 cases. Union was occurred in 43 of 45 cases. The sliding distance of lag screw was an average of 5.63 mm and it had no association with fracture type, TAD, usage of antirational screw, usage of distal screw and BMD. Twenty-six of 45 patients (57.7%) were recovered to pre-injury state of walking ability. Complications were occurred in 3 patients (6%).

Proximal femoral nail was a useful instrument for all type intertrochanteric fractures, but antirotational pin was not necessary in the stable type A1 intertrochnatirc fractures.