Favorable radiographic outcomes using the expandable proximal femoral nail in the treatment of hip fractures – A randomized controlled trial

AimTo compare the functional and radiographic results of dynamic hip screw (DHS) and expandable proximal femoral nail (EPFN) in the treatment of extracapsular hip fractures.MethodsA randomized controlled trial of sixty hip fracture patients. Outcomes included mortality, residency, independence, mobility, function and radiographic results at a minimum of 1 year.ResultsTwenty-nine EPFN patients demonstrated fewer cases of shaft medialization or femoral offset shortening compared to the 31 DHS patients. Mortality, complications and functional outcomes were similar.ConclusionEPFN provides stable fixation of pertrochanteric hip fractures and prevents neck shortening that is commonly observed after DHS fixation.