Melvin P. Rosenwasser, M.D.

Closed intramedullary nailing is currently accepted as the optimum method of management for most adult femoral fractures. This operation is somewhat complex and requires experience; however, the excellent stabilization and rapid mobilization that can be achieved exemplify the advantages over other methods.

In this segment, the patient presents exhibiting multiple myeloma lesions with the proximal and distal femoral shift at high risk of catastrophic fracture. Presently, surgeons use different reconstruction nails to deal with the specific challenges this case represents. However, proximal fixation is often compromised utilizing these designs.

Dr. Melvin P. Rosenwasser, of New York, participated in clinical trials involving a recently developed device which introduces a significant advantage in the range of treatments available for subtrochanteric fractures, ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures, unstable intertrochanteric fractures and revision cases.

His demonstration of the surgical technique, which involves a trochanteric approach without hammering or forceful entry of the nail into the femoral shaft, provides an excellent introduction for surgeons already familiar with the standard locking nail operating technique.

References Shaw, JA, Wilson S Internal fixation of proximal femur fractures: a biomechanical comparison of the gamma locking nail and the omega compression hip screw Orthop Review 1993;22:61-68
1. Boriani S, Bettelli G, Zmerly H, Specchia L, Bungaro P, Montanari G, Capelli A, Canella P, Regnoli R, Rispoli R, et al. Results of the multicenteric Italian experience on the gamma nail: a report on 648 cases (published erratum appears in Orthop 1992;15(5):545) Orthop 1991;14:1307-1314

• Total Run Time: 12:11 minutes
• Catalog Number: 6017
• Publication Date: October 1997

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