Why is intramedullary nail used in hip fracture surgery?

A hip fracture may involve the upper femur below or around the hip joint. For an appropriate fracture pattern, the nail sits inside the thigh bone and connects with a screw or blade directed toward the femoral head and neck. This arrangement supports the broken area along the bone's load-bearing axis and helps resist bending, rotation, and shortening while the bone heals.

A nail is not the right operation for every hip fracture. Fracture position, stability, bone quality, joint involvement, mobility before the injury, and medical conditions guide the choice between fixation and replacement procedures.

Before surgery, tell the team about blood thinners, heart or lung conditions, and your usual walking ability. Afterward, use the prescribed walking aid and follow the weight-bearing instructions. Early movement, breathing exercises, nutrition, and prevention of prolonged immobility may be included in the recovery plan. Keep follow-up visits because pain, walking progress, and images help guide activity.

Ask for prompt medical review if pain suddenly increases, the leg appears newly shortened or turned, the wound becomes red or drains, or you develop fever or new confusion. Urgent help is needed for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or a cold, pale, numb foot. A fall after surgery should be reported, especially if walking becomes harder.

Ask which part of the femur is broken, why a nail is suitable, how much weight is allowed, what signs suggest loss of fixation, and when you will have follow-up imaging.