proximal femoral nail antirotation

Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation

PFNA - Long & Short

  • Medical evaluation:The patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and chronic medical conditions, is reviewed. Preoperative tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, and possibly a CT scan or MRI, may be conducted to assess the extent and characteristics of the fracture.

  • Preoperative counseling:The patient is informed about the surgical procedure, its risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. The surgeon will discuss the specific details of the surgery, including the type of implant (Proximal Femur Nail Antirotation) and potential complications.

  • Medications and allergies: The patient should inform the surgical team about any medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Specific instructions will be given regarding which medications to continue or discontinue before the surgery. Any known allergies should be reported to the medical team.

  • Fasting instructions:The patient will receive specific instructions regarding fasting before the surgery, typically requiring abstaining from food and drink (including water) for a specified period before the procedure. This is done to minimize the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

  • Anesthesia consultation:If general anesthesia is planned, the patient may undergo a preoperative anesthesia consultation to evaluate their fitness for anesthesia and to discuss anesthesia options and potential risks.

  • Preoperative hygiene:Patients are often instructed to take a shower or bath the night before or on the day of the surgery using an antimicrobial soap to reduce the risk of surgical site infections.

  • Preoperative fasting and medications: The patient will be given specific instructions regarding the timing of last oral intake, including food, drink, and medications, before the surgery.

  • Preoperative preparation:The patient may be asked to arrive at the hospital or surgical center a few hours before the scheduled surgery time. They will change into a hospital gown and have their vital signs monitored. An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted to provide fluids and medications during the procedure.

  • Consent and paperwork: The patient will sign a consent form, indicating their understanding of the procedure, associated risks, and potential complications. Any required paperwork and administrative procedures will also be completed.

  • Support system:It is important for patients to arrange for transportation to and from the hospital or surgical center, as they may not be able to drive themselves home after the procedure. It can be helpful to have a family member or friend available to provide support and assistance during the preoperative and postoperative periods.

  • It is essential to note that preoperative protocols can vary based on individual patient characteristics, the surgeon's preferences, and the specific policies of the medical facility where the procedure is being performed. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the surgeon and the medical team involved in the patient's care.
  • Anesthesia: The patient is typically placed under general anesthesia, although regional anesthesia (e.g., spinal or epidural) may also be used depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's preference. The chosen anesthesia method will ensure that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

  • Patient positioning: The patient is positioned on the operating table, usually lying on their back. The affected leg is appropriately positioned and prepped to provide optimal access to the proximal femur.

  • Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the proximal femur region. The location and length of the incision may vary depending on the specific fracture pattern and the implant design.

  • Soft tissue management:The surrounding soft tissues, such as muscles and tendons, are carefully dissected and retracted to expose the fractured area and the femur's medullary canal.

  • Fracture reduction:The fractured fragments are then realigned (reduced) into their proper anatomical position. This may involve gentle manipulation, traction, or the use of specialized reduction instruments.

  • Nail insertion: A guide wire is carefully placed through the proximal femur to aid in the insertion of the antirotation nail. Using fluoroscopic guidance (X-ray imaging), the surgeon drills a hole into the femur's medullary canal, which is sized to accommodate the chosen nail.

  • Nail insertion and placement:The antirotation nail, pre-selected based on appropriate length and diameter, is inserted into the medullary canal. The nail is advanced along the guide wire until it reaches the desired position within the proximal femur.

  • Locking and stabilization: Once the nail is properly positioned, the surgeon may employ locking screws at the proximal and distal ends of the nail, which provide added stability and prevent rotation of the implant. In some cases, additional screws or bolts may be used to secure the implant further.

  • Wound closure: The incision is carefully closed with sutures or staples, and sterile dressings are applied to the wound site.

  • Postoperative care: The patient is then taken to the recovery area, where they are closely monitored. Pain management, antibiotics, and other postoperative care protocols will be administered as per the surgeon's instructions. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be initiated soon after the procedure to aid in the recovery and restoration of mobility.

  • It is important to note that postoperative care and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the patient's recovery process. The specific postoperative protocols may vary based on the patient's condition and the surgeon's preferences, so it is important to follow the guidance provided by the medical team.
  • Recovery and monitoring:The patient is taken to a recovery area where vital signs, pain levels, and any immediate postoperative complications are monitored. Nursing staff will closely observe the patient for signs of surgical site infection, bleeding, or other complications.

  • Pain management:Adequate pain control is essential for patient comfort and early mobilization. Pain medication may be administered through intravenous (IV) or oral routes as prescribed by the surgeon. The medical team will assess the patient's pain levels and adjust the pain medication accordingly.

  • Wound care:The surgical incision site should be kept clean and monitored for signs of infection. Dressings may be changed regularly, following the surgeon's instructions. The patient should report any unusual discharge, redness, swelling, or increasing pain around the incision site.

  • Early mobilization and weight-bearing:Depending on the specific fracture and the surgeon's instructions, early mobilization and partial weight-bearing may be initiated. Physical therapists or rehabilitation specialists will guide the patient through appropriate exercises and activities to promote mobility while minimizing the risk of complications.

  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation:A structured physical therapy program is crucial for the patient's long-term recovery. Physical therapists will provide exercises and rehabilitation techniques to restore strength, range of motion, and functional mobility. This may include gait training, muscle strengthening exercises, balance training, and other interventions tailored to the patient's specific needs.

  • Medication and medical management: The patient will be prescribed appropriate medications, such as antibiotics and blood thinners, to prevent infections and complications. It is important to strictly adhere to the prescribed medication regimen and follow up with the surgeon for any necessary adjustments.

  • Follow-up appointments: The patient will have scheduled follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing progress, remove sutures or staples if necessary, assess X-rays, and evaluate overall recovery. The frequency of follow-up visits will vary based on the patient's progress and the surgeon's recommendations.

  • Precautions and activity restrictions:The patient will be given specific instructions regarding weight-bearing restrictions, limitations on certain activities, and the use of assistive devices such as crutches or walkers. It is crucial to adhere to these instructions to prevent reinjury and support proper healing.

  • Lifestyle modifications: The patient may receive guidance on lifestyle modifications to promote bone health, such as adequate nutrition, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and fall prevention strategies.

  • It is important to note that the postoperative care plan may differ for each patient based on their individual circumstances, fracture severity, and surgeon's preferences. Therefore, it is essential to follow the specific postoperative instructions provided by the surgeon and the medical team involved in the patient's care.