Management of a trochanteric fracture complicated by a bent solid intramedullary femoral nail in situ: description of technique.

Abstract

A femoral refracture in the presence of an intramedullary nail in situ remains a challenging technical problem. This is particularly true when dealing with vintage implants phased out from the market, which lack a specific extraction device. In the present case report, we share our experience on the fixation technique of a trochanteric femur fracture in the presence of a "classic" solid Schneider nail, which had been implanted more than 20 years earlier. Detailed preoperative planning and adequate surgical technique represent prerequisites for successful management of such a demanding condition with the aim of reducing the imminent risk of intraoperative technical complications and adverse patient outcome.