Infections after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric fractures are uncommon and implant removal is not usually needed.

Abstract Background and purpose – Infections after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric femoral fractures are rare, but potentially life-threatening complications. There are limited data available to support decision making in these cases. Patients and methods – A retrospective study of 995 consecutive operatively treated trochanteric fractures was made to find out different risk factors for infection and to describe the results of treatment. Results – 28 patients developed a surgical site infection (2.8%) after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric fracture. 15 patients (1.5%) had a deep and 13 patients (1.3%) a superficial surgical site infection. Cigarette smoking (p Interpretation – Infection after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric fractures can be successfully treated without removal or exchange of the fixation material.