Comparative Study of Proximal Femoral Nail versus Dynamic Hip Screw Fixation in Elderly Patients with Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures: A Prospective Cohort Analysis

Background: Intertrochanteric femur fractures are common in the elderly population and are associated with significant morbidity and functional decline. Optimal surgical fixation remains a subject of debate, particularly between intramedullary and extramedullary devices. This study aimed to compare clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes of proximal femoral nail (PFN) and dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation in elderly patients with intertrochanteric femur fractures. Material and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted from March 2015 to March 2017 at a tertiary care center and included 120 elderly patients (≥60 years) with intertrochanteric femur fractures. Patients were allocated into two groups based on the fixation method used: PFN (n=60) and DHS (n=60). Demographic variables, intraoperative parameters, postoperative mobilization, radiological union, complications, and functional outcomes were assessed. Functional evaluation was performed using the Harris Hip Score at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Statistical analysis was carried out using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests, with a p value