Intermediate Length Cephalomedullary Nails in Proximal Femoral Fractures: Review of Indications and Outcomes.

Abstract

Intermediate length (235 to 240 mm) cephalomedullary nails have been introduced as alternatives to the classic short and long cephalomedullary nails for the management of different types of proximal femur fractures. Recently, they have gained popularity among many surgeons because of the ease of distal locking screw insertion compared with long nails and the additional diaphyseal fit they provide compared with short nails. Despite their increasing popularity, the literature offers limited guidance on their ideal indications, with few studies comparing their outcomes with those of short and long nails. In this review, we aim to explore the potential indications for intermediate length cephalomedullary nails and examine the existing literature on their outcomes in the treatment of proximal femur fractures, highlighting the comparative studies.