Experience with the A.O. locking femoral nail.

A series of 21 fractures of the femur unsuitable for ordinary closed nailing have been treated using the A.O. locking femoral nail. The results obtained have been good with one case of non-union and no cases of deep infection, despite the complex nature of the fractures. The procedure is technically demanding and exposes the surgeon to the risks of ionizing radiation. Practical points to simplify the procedure and reduce exposure to radiation are discussed.