The use of sliding hip screw versus Targon proximal femoral nail in the treatment of unstable pertrochanteric fractures AO:31-A2. A prospective randomized trial

Purpose: This study aimed at investigating the functional outcome after using either a Targon proximal femoral nail versus sliding hip screw in the treatment of pertrochanteric fractures with posteromedial comminution AO:31-A2. Methods: Twenty-six patients were prospectively randomized into either Targon PFN or SHS fixation group. Our primary outcome was the hip function measured by Harris hip score at six months follow up. Secondary outcomes are revision surgery, implant associated complications and limb shortening. Results: The two groups were similar regarding age, six and side distribution. Both groups had similar AO classification subtypes. At 6 months follow up, the Harris hip score was similar for both fixation methods. The SHS group had 5 patients with excessive fracture collapse and neck screw backing out and this group of patients had significantly shorter lower extremities compared to patients without excessive collapse. The Harris hip score is still similar in both groups. Conclusion: The Targon PFN might decrease the likelihood of excessive fracture collapse and the resultant limb shortening in cases of unstable pertrochanteric fractures with posteromedial comminution, howeverhip function was similar for both fixation methods and was not affected by excessive fracture collapse.