To evaluate the efficacy of mini-incision reduction technique in unstable intertrochanteric femoral fracture treated with intramedullary nail.

From January, 2005 to December, 2007, we selected 26 patients of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fracture which underwent anatomic reduction by mini-incision reduction technique using various instruments, and treated with intramedullary nail. We evaluated the radiological results with the union time, change of femoral neck-shaft angle and distance of lag screw sliding by follow-up radiography, and the clinical results with the mobility score of Parker and Palmer, Salvati and Wilson hip function scoring system and Jensen index.

The mean union time was 18.9 weeks. The mean changes of femoral neck-shaft angle was 4.1 degree. The mean distance of lag screw sliding was 4.4 mm. Decrease of mobility score of Parker and Palmer, Salvati and Wilson hip function score was showed, and social function score of Jensen maintained 54% compared with preoperative score.

Mini-incision reduction technique using various instruments showed satisfactory clinical and radiological results, and we believe that it is a recommendable method in unstable intertrochanteric femoral fracture which manual reduction is difficult.