DYNAMIC CONDYLAR SCREW FOR SUBTROCHANTERIC FEMUR FRACTURES WITH GREATER TROCHANTERIC EXTENSION

Sixteen cases of subtrochanteric femur fractures with greater trochant eric extension were treated using the AO dynamic condylar screw (DCS). All cases were treated using the principles of strict indirect reduct ion to achieve anatomic alignment rather than anatomic reduction, with no bone grafting, and delayed weight bearing. The overall union rate was 93.7% (15 of 16). One unique case of implant failure with varus no nunion was encountered following a repeat trauma. The advantages of th e implant and technique are a simplified procedure, shorter operative time, and rapid union. Using the DCS with the indirect reduction metho d and delayed weight bearing is an acceptable choice in subtrochanteri c femur fractures with greater trochanteric involvement when other ade quate implants are not available for stable fixation.