Abstract

Introduction: Femoral shaft fractures are severe injuries that commonly occur in the working-age population and often lead to significant functional impairment. Closed intramedullary interlocking nailing without opening the fracture site has become the preferred treatment due to its advantages in reducing infection risk, preserving periosteal blood supply, minimizing soft tissue damage, and promoting early bone healing. This technique has been routinely applied at Hue Central Hospital with encouraging outcomes.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 31 patients with closed femoral shaft fractures who underwent closed intramedullary interlocking nailing without opening the fracture site at Hue Central Hospital from December 2023 to July 2025. Clinical characteristics, surgical parameters, reduction quality, bone union time, and functional outcomes were evaluated.

Results: The mean patient age was 32.3 ± 10 years, with fractures most commonly located in the middle third of the femoral shaft. The mean reduction time was 32.3 ± 7 minutes. According to the Larson–Böstman criteria, all patients achieved excellent or good reduction results. Bone union occurred predominantly within 4–6 months. Functional assessment using the Ter–Schiphorst scoring system demonstrated excellent and good outcomes in 79% of cases.

Conclusion: Closed intramedullary interlocking nailing without opening the fracture site is a safe and effective surgical method for the treatment of femoral shaft fractures. This technique reduces postoperative complications, shortens hospital stay, and provides favorable bone healing and functional recovery.