SURGICAL TREATMENT OF FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES IN POLYTRAUMATIZED PATIENTS

Fractures of the femur are common, usually serious and are the result of high-energyaccidents. They can be associated with involvement of other organs, causing deformities and sequelae for the patient, due to immediate or late complications. Anatomical reduction and stable internal fixation are essential in order to achieve the treatment objectives in patients with good bone quality. Treatment is eminently surgical as it allows early rehabilitation and reduces the risk of systemic complications. There are numerous therapeutic options, but osteosynthesis with an intramedullary plate and nail stands out. However, some factors influence the choice of the type of surgical intervention to be performed, such as hospital resources, availability of suitable material for the procedure, trained staff and availability of an image intensifier.