Closed femoral intramedullary nailing in the lateral decubitus position with the aid of intraoperative skeletal traction

The closed intramedullary nailing is the treatment of choice for femoral diaphyseal fractures. These procedures typically have been performed on a fracture table with either supine or lateral position. However, the use of a fracture table has a lot of disadvantages compared to a lateral position on radiolucent routine table. We reviewed one hundred and twenty-eight patients with femur fractures between 2005 and 2009, who were treated with closed femoral intramedullary nailing in lateral decubitus position on radiolucent routine table. Indirect reduction was facilitated by the aid of intraoperative skeletal traction. Clinical and radiologic results were evaluated. There were no rotational or length malreductions that required surgical revision. There were no injuries to the perineum or contralateral leg, nerve palsies, or fracture table–related complications. There were three cases of non-union and two cases of interlocking screw loosening. Lateral decubitus position obviates the need for fracture table, making it easier to establish an entry point for an intramedullary device. Closed femoral intramedullary nailing in lateral decubitus position with the aid of intraoperative skeletal traction is safe and an effective technique with a low incidence of complications compared to the use of fracture table.