The InterTAN nail is a specialized orthopedic implant designed to repair fractures in the upper part of the femur, also known as the thigh bone. It functions as an intramedullary nail, meaning it is inserted into the hollow, central cavity of the bone. This internal placement acts like an internal splint, securely holding the broken bone fragments together. The primary purpose of this titanium device is to provide stable internal fixation, allowing the fractured bone to heal properly and restore function.
Conditions Treated with an InterTAN Nail
The InterTAN nail treats various fractures in the upper femur, particularly near the hip joint. It primarily treats intertrochanteric fractures, breaks between the greater and lesser trochanters—two bony prominences on the femur near the hip. The system also addresses pertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures, which occur around or just below these trochanters.
These fractures are common in older individuals, often from low-energy trauma like falls, especially with osteoporosis. Due to high morbidity and mortality, surgical intervention is almost always recommended for proper healing and to help patients regain walking ability and independence. The InterTAN system provides stability for these fractures, leading to favorable outcomes.
The Surgical Implantation Process
Implantation of an InterTAN nail involves a precise, minimally invasive technique. Patients receive general or regional anesthesia before the procedure. A small incision (3-5 centimeters) is made at the hip’s side, proximal to the greater trochanter, to access the femur’s top.
Surgeons use fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray guidance) to insert the nail down the femur’s hollow center, across the fracture. Once positioned, an integrated lag screw and compression screw are placed through the nail into the femoral head (the hip joint’s ball-shaped part). This dual-screw design stabilizes the fracture and resists rotation. A distal locking screw may also be inserted through the nail’s lower part into the bone to prevent rotation and maintain its position.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Timeline
Recovery begins immediately after surgery, focusing on pain management and wound care in the hospital (typically a few days to a week). Patients are encouraged to begin gentle range of motion exercises and early mobilization within 24-48 hours, sometimes practicing getting out of bed or using a walker. This early movement helps reduce stiffness and improve circulation. Physical therapy sessions start soon after, focusing on regaining strength, flexibility, and balance in the affected limb.
The InterTAN nail’s stability often allows earlier partial weight-bearing (sometimes within weeks), accelerating rehabilitation. Full weight-bearing is gradually increased as bone healing progresses, often 6 to 12 weeks, depending on individual healing capacity and fracture stability. Long-term recovery, involving advanced strengthening and functional training, continues for several months (typically three to six months) to help patients return to pre-injury activity levels. Adherence to prescribed physical therapy and follow-up appointments is important for successful outcomes.
Key Advantages of the InterTAN System
The InterTAN system offers distinct advantages over other femoral fracture implants due to its unique design. A key benefit is its superior rotational stability, achieved by an integrated two-screw design interlocking within the femoral head. This configuration prevents the femoral head from twisting or rotating after fixation, reducing the risk of implant failures and reoperations.
The system also provides controlled, linear compression at the fracture site, promoting bone healing by bringing fragments into close contact. This active compression enhances the body’s natural healing response and reduces micro-motion at the fracture site. These benefits translate to improved patient outcomes, including a lower risk of complications like screw cut-out or implant failure, and a faster return to mobility and function.