PROJECT TEAM
Jes Bruun Lauritzen, professor, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Clinical Medicine. Copenhagen Capital Region & University of Copenhagen
Henrik Palm, Chief Surgeon, Associate Professor, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Clinical Medicine. Copenhagen Capital Region & University of Copenhagen
Mikkel Holm Christensen, Consultant, Holbæk Sygehus, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
THE NEED
Obese patients (BMI > 40) with hip fractures face complex, high-risk surgeries due to the thick soft tissue around the hip. Traditional procedures often require 30–40 cm incisions, extended surgery times (up to 4 hours), and carry increased risks of infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, and blood clots. Current implants and surgical techniques result in high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, highlighting the need for a safer, less invasive method.
THE SOLUTION
Our patented solution (WO 2021/043907) combines an intramedullary hip screw and a retrograde femoral nail inserted from the knee, guided by a custom jig for precise placement. This allows for smaller incisions, reduced surgical time, and optimal implant positioning. A 3D-CT-based custom implant ensures perfect mechanical fit for each patient, further reducing complications and improving postoperative outcomes.
Retrograde Nail for Hip Fracture - Bispebjerg Hospital
Call 5 - 2024
500.000 DKK
Clinical Area
Orthopedic Surgery
Technology
MedTech
PROJECT SUMMARY
The Retrograde Nail for Hip Fracture is an innovative surgical solution designed to treat hip fractures in obese patients. By inserting the nail from the knee rather than the hip region, the approach reduces surgical trauma, complications, and recovery time compared to conventional methods.
CLINICAL IMPACT
The retrograde nail reduces surgical trauma and complications in morbidly obese hip fracture patients, improving recovery and survival. For clinicians, it simplifies procedures and enhances implant precision. Hospitals benefit from shorter operative times, fewer revisions, and lower costs. With 4% of 5,000 annual intertrochanteric fractures in Denmark involving patients with BMI > 40, this innovation offers significant clinical and economic value.