Abstract
The Gamma Nail is a new device for treatment of the intertrochanteric fracture of the femur. The device became popular in Japan after development of the Asiatic Gamma Nail. However some complications have been reported; cut out of lag screw, fracture of femur shaft and varus deformity. We have used this device since November, 1992, and varus deformity was seen in several early cases. We think that varus deformity is caused by the adducted position of injured leg during surgery which is fixed to facilitate reaming.
Since May, 1993, we have attempted to prevent varus deformity by doing over-traction for the injured leg. As a result, varus deformity did not occur with this device and all patients could walk by themselves.
So we conclude over-traction appears to be a very useful method to prevent varus deformity in these kinds of cases.
