Intertrochanteric Fracture – Dr. Vinit Oswal | Expert Orthopaedic Doctor in Bengaluru

Dr. Vinit Oswal, a highly skilled Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire Clinic, Bengaluru, specializes in the surgical management of intertrochanteric fractures of the hip. Using advanced fixation techniques such as DHS (Dynamic Hip Screw) and PFN (Proximal Femoral Nail), he ensures stable fixation, quicker rehabilitation, and excellent long-term outcomes for patients.

What is an Intertrochanteric Fracture?

An intertrochanteric fracture is a type of hip fracture that occurs between the greater and lesser trochanters of the femur (upper thigh bone). It is most common in elderly patients with osteoporosis but can also occur in younger individuals following high-energy trauma such as road accidents or falls.

When should you seek treatment for an Intertrochanteric Fracture?

• Severe pain in the hip or groin after a fall
• Inability to stand, walk, or bear weight on the affected leg
• Shortened or externally rotated leg
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity around the hip
• Persistent pain in elderly patients after minor trauma

How is an Intertrochanteric Fracture Treated?

Most intertrochanteric fractures require surgical fixation to allow early mobilization and prevent complications. The two most common techniques include:

• DHS (Dynamic Hip Screw) – A plate and screw system used to fix stable fractures, allowing controlled compression at the fracture site for bone healing.
• PFN (Proximal Femoral Nail) – An intramedullary nail inserted into the femoral canal, ideal for unstable or complex fractures. Provides strong fixation, early mobilization, and reduced implant failure.

How is the Surgery Done?

• Performed under spinal or general anaesthesia
• Small incisions are made over the hip region
• Fracture is reduced (aligned) under X-ray guidance
• DHS plate/screw or PFN nail is inserted and fixed for stabilization
• Surgery usually takes 1–2 hours
• Early mobilization is encouraged post-surgery to prevent complications

What Care is Necessary After Surgery?

• Hospital stay is usually 5–7 days
• Physiotherapy begins within 48 hours to restore movement
• Walking aids (walker or crutches) are used initially
• Recovery period: 8–12 weeks for most patients
• Balanced diet with calcium and vitamin D supplements for bone healing
• Regular follow-ups and X-rays to monitor fracture healing

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in regaining independence after hip fracture surgery. Early mobilization reduces the risk of bed sores, pneumonia, and blood clots in elderly patients.

Risks & Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Implant failure or screw cut-out (rare with PFN/DHS)
• Delayed or non-union of the fracture
• Shortening or deformity if not properly treated
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism

Advantages of DHS/PFN Fixation

• Stable fixation allowing early walking
• Reduced risk of complications compared to non-surgical treatment
• PFN offers excellent results for unstable or osteoporotic fractures
• DHS remains a reliable choice for stable intertrochanteric fractures
• Improved quality of life with faster rehabilitation

Book Your Appointment

For additional information on Intertrochanteric Fracture treatment, or to have your hip injury evaluated, please call +91 6364329177 – Dr. Vinit Oswal, Expert Orthopaedic Doctor in Bengaluru, serving patients at Spire Clinic and across Bangalore City.