Femoral Shaft Fracture and Internal Fixation

What Are Femoral Shaft Fracture and Internal Fixation Surgery?

Patients suffering from a femoral shaft fracture need corrective internal or external fixation surgery to realign the femur in the thigh and hold it in position until the fracture heals.   

During femoral shaft fracture or internal fixation surgery, patients typically receive general anesthesia.  The surgeon makes an incision into the buttocks just above the thighbone.  Passing a steel rod (known as an intramedullary nail/rod) through the bone marrow canal in the femur and across the fracture, the surgeon secures the femur in the correct position.  Screws may be necessary to increase the stability of the rod.  Once the femoral shaft fracture—internal fixation surgery is complete, the surgeon closes the wound with stitches or clips and applies an adhesive dressing.  A drainage tube is usually inserted to drain away excess blood or fluids for 1 to 2 days.  Patients can expect to remain in the hospital for 4 to 5 days post surgery.   

Most patients require prescription painkillers after the operation.  It is important for the patient to be able to urinate within 6 hours of the surgery.  A follow-up appointment 10 to 12 days later is usually necessary to remove the stitches and clips.  Cross screws may remain in place for several weeks.  Individuals below the age of 40 typically have the rod removed 18 months after the femoral shaft fracture—internal fixation surgery.