The use of the Küntscher Y nail in the treatment of intertrochantertc and subtrochanteric fractures of the femur

Conventional nail plates provide a relatively poor fixation of unstable and pathological fractures of the upper femur, and nail-plate failure is not uncommon. A two-part device, the Kuntscher Y nail, provides a strong fixation in these cases and is not difficult to insert if the method described is employed. The results in 91 patients treated with the Y nail are discussed. Since distal migration of the nail has been prevented by use of a flanged medullary nail, no mechanical failure has occurred. Early weight bearing can be permitted after operation.