Basic Operative Techniques with Short Nails: Operative Technique for Short Gamma Nails

Abstract

The Gamma nail is a commonly used implant for proximal femoral fractures (AO classification 31 A1-3). 31 A3 fractures should be treated with a long Gamma nail. The Gamma nail consists of a nail, a lag screw and a distal locking screw. After positioning the patient on a fracture table, the fracture is then reduced. The surgeon can choose a Gamma nail of 125, 130 or 135 degrees, depending on the femoral neck angle. There are several possibilities for opening the femoral canal to introduce the nail. The lag screw is placed via a targeting device. The optimal position is still a subject of discussion. Distal locking is also done via a targeting device. Complications of this procedure are femoral fractures, cut-out of the lag screw, fatigue fractures of the locking bolts and infection.

Key words

Gamma nail - operative technique - proximal femoral fracture

References

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