Abstract:Objective To compare the clinical results between irreducible and reducible femoral intertrochanteric fracture with intramedullary nail for elderly patients. Methods A total of 60 elderly patients with femoral intertrochanteric fracture who underwent intramedullary nail fixation were enrolled in this study from February 2013 to July 2015. According to fracture type the patients were divided into irreducible group and reducible group. Periosteal dissector was applied to make reduction and then fixed with intramedullary nail for 28 cases in irreducible group. Routine closed reduction and intramedullary nail fixation was performed for 32 patients in reducible group. The operation index, fracture reduction, complication rate and bed days were recorded for both groups. The hip function and quality of life were evaluated by functional recovery scale (FRS) and EuroQol 5 dimensions scores (EQ-5D). All the patients were followed up by outpatient and telephone in 3 months, 1 year and 2 years periodically. Results The operation time and amount of blood loss were less in reducible group (P < 0.05). While the bed days, complication rate and fracture reduction were similar between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). At the last follow-up the FRS was higher in reducible group (P < 0.05), however the EQ-5D index and independent walk capability showed no significant difference between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions Intramedullary nail was effective treatments for elderly patients with femoral intertrochanteric fracture. While the clinical outcome favored reducible group with less surgical procedure and trauma.