Abstract

Background: Intramedullary devices are the most popular mode of management for unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures. These implants have been designed based on geometric studies of proximal femur of western population which varies from other ethnic groups.
Objective: This study is aimed to measure proximal femur parameters in south Indian population using computed tomography (CT).
Methodology: A descriptive anatomical study, conducted by measuring proximal femoral parameters using computed tomography scans which were available in the Department of Radio-diagnosis, S. Nijalingappa Medical College and Hospital and Research Centre, Bagalkot. Parameters assessed are-Neck Width(NW), Canal width at Lesser trochanter anteroposterior (CW-LT AP), Canal width at lesser trochanter mediolateral (CW-LT ML), Neck Shaft Angle (NSA), Head Size (HS), Horizontal Offset (HO), Vertical Offset (VO), Greater trochanter to lesser trochanter distance (GT-LT) and Trochanteric region width (TRW).
Results: The mean parameters observed were as follows: NW 29.48 ± 2.51mm (range 25-35.1mm), NSA 130.01° ± 4.80° (range 121°-138°), canal width at lesser trochanter anteroposterior (CW-LT AP) 14.93 ± 2.34mm (range 10.1-21.4mm), canal width at lesser trochanter mediolateral (CW-LT ML) 13.18 ± 1.96mm (range 9.75-18.5mm), head size (HS) 45.03 ± 2.77mm (range 40.24-49.91mm), vertical offset (VO) 41.78 ± 9.84mm (range 33.8-58.6mm), horizontal offset (HO) 34.56 ± 2.86mm (range 27.9-38.4mm), Greater trochanter to lesser trochanter distance (GT-LT) 64.24 ± 6.33mm (range 56.3-82mm), trochanteric region width (TRW) 45.34 ± 3.47 (range 38.9-55.4mm).
 
Conclusion: Greater trochanter to lesser trochanter is less and needs reduction in length of proximal segment height of PFN nails for south Indian population. Similarly diameter of proximal segment of PFN nail has to be further reduced for south Indian population.
Anthropometric analysis of proximal femur in south Indian population: A computed tomography-based study