Table 3 Comparison between the stiffness of the osteosyntheses with the 2C configuration with end caps (2CEC) and the configuration with a third nail from lateral (3E). Lower changes in shifting tests = higher stiffness

(n = 7)

(n = 8)

Mean (SD) four-point bending (Nm/mm)

Anterior-posterior

0.44 (0.11)

1.04 (0.37)

<0.001

Posterior-anterior

0.48 (0.13)

0.85 (0.30)

<0.001

Lateral-medial

0.60 (0.19)

1.26 (0.54)

<0.001

Medial-lateral

0.73 (0.25)

1.16 (0.33)

<0.001

Mean (SD) rotation (Nm/°)

External rotation

0.10 (0.03)

0.14 (0.02)

<0.001

Internal rotation

0.10 (0.03)

0.16 (0.04)

<0.001

Mean (SD) 9° compression/shifting (mm)

Shifting 9° trochanter major

1.77 (1.70)

1.14 (1.41)

0.24

Shifting 9° crista intertrochanterica

7.44 (2.48)

4.97 (2.89)

<0.001