Retrograde nailing of femoral fractures distal to a Moore prosthesis.

Abstract

Fractures distal to uncemented hemiprostheses are difficult to treat. This paper describes a simple procedure: retrograde nailing of femoral fractures below a Moore prosthesis. We report on seven elderly female patients in whom clinical and radiographic evaluations were done after seven to fifteen months. No major complications occurred and all fractures healed. All patients returned to their preinjury level of housing, and all but one regained their preinjury walking status. We conclude that retrograde nailing of a femoral fracture distal to a Moore prosthesis is a quick and simple method that allows immediate mobilization and results in a good functional recovery for elderly, often fragile patients.