What is proximal femoral nailing?
Proximal femoral nailing is an advanced orthopedic procedure used to treat fractures of the femur. The surgery involves stabilizing and aligning the broken thighbone by inserting a specialized femoral nail, ensuring quicker recovery and improved mobility.
A fracture occurs when the bone’s continuity is disrupted, ranging from minor hairline cracks to severe breaks caused by trauma or accidents. Hip fractures, which primarily affect the femur, are particularly common in elderly individuals due to factors such as osteoporosis, impaired vision, or loss of balance, increasing their risk of falls.
| Procedure Name | Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) |
|---|---|
| Type of Procedure | Minimally invasive surgery |
| Type of Anesthesia | General or Spinal anesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | 1-2 hours |
| Recovery Duration | 3-6 months |
Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN): Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Preparation for proximal femoral nailing
Imaging tests, such as X-rays & CT scans, are performed to evaluate the fracture and adequately plan the procedure. Additionally, the patient is asked to refrain from taking any medications that could interfere with the procedure, such as blood thinners, and is instructed to fast for a few hours.
During the procedure
Imaging tests, such as X-rays & CT scans, are performed to evaluate the fracture and adequately plan the procedure. Additionally, the patient is asked to refrain from taking any medications that could interfere with the procedure, such as blood thinners, and is instructed to fast for a few hours.
Once in the procedure room, you will be administered general or local anesthesia to reduce the likelihood of experiencing pain during the procedure. The thigh bone (femur) is accessed by making a small incision at the hip to insert the proximal femur nail precisely using fluoroscopy. Additionally, the surgeon secures the bone fragments to hold the bone in place with the screws inserted through the nail.
PFN Recovery Time
The patient may require a hospital stay for a couple of days or more. The recovery period may vary from individual to individual; however, the ideal healing period ranges from a few weeks to months.
Post-Op Care:
- Get adequate sleep while adhering to the suggested mild exercises or movements.
- Keep the incision area clean and dry.
- To avoid stiffness, use crutches and walk slowly.
- Consume foods high in vitamins and calcium to improve your health.
- Take painkillers as prescribed to ease your discomfort.
- Your doctor should be contacted right away if you suffer from excruciating pain, swelling, redness, or any discharge from the incision site.
- Follow-ups and routine assessments to determine the state of healing.
Benefits of Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) at Yashoda Hospitals
- Minimally Invasive
- Improves mobility and restores bone stability
- Minimal blood loss compared to the dynamic hip screw method.
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