The use of the Zickel device for a malunited subtrochanteric femur fracture.

Surgical treatment of adult subtrochanteric femur fractures by internal fixation, using the Jewett nail, has been associated with a high degree of major complications. Jewett nail failures in these fractures can produce functionally disabling varus deformities. The Zickel device is an effective means of providing internal fixation following subtrochanteric osteotomy. A case is presented in which the Zickel device was effectively used.