Purpose of the study: We present here the clinical results achieved with locked intramedullary flexible osteosynthesis (LIFO) system in femoral fractures. The two major advantages of the device are its flexibility an ease of use.
Material and methods: Over a period of 6 years, 42 patients were treated. Two died and 7 were lost for follow-up, leaving 33 cases available for evaluation. Fourteen cases were specifically analysed for callus morphological characteristics: volume, length and width, and compared to 18 cases from a previous series involving 27 intramedullary unmatched appaired nailings.
Results: Results in the 33 patients of this series are: no nonunion, 1 osteomyelitis in an open fracture, 4 malunions (2 primary iatrogenic malunions, 2 secondary cases due to a weak fixation). Fractures united at a mean delay of 10 weeks, that is, 4 weeks less than with a nail. Morphological callus study also showed that the LIFO system generates about 25 per cent longer of peripheral new bone formation than a nail.
Conclusion: A LIFO construct with 3 or even 4 pins yields a shorter healing time than a nail. Furthermore, it generates a callus of 25 per cent longer around the fracture. The four pins construct was found to be as dependable as a locked nail, and minimizes inventory. This technique is indicated in the treatment of all common femoral shaft fractures in adults.