What is the difference between an “extramedullary sliding hip screw” and an “intramedullary nail” and why would I want one over the other?  My surgeon says that the type of hip fracture that I have needs an intramedullary nail and I think this is excessive.  

An intramedullary nail is a rod that is placed in the bone shaft itself and screwed in place.  It is used in cases where the bone is not easily screwed together with plates on the outside of the bone, or a “extramedullary sliding hip screw.” Depending on the type and extent of your hip fracture, an intramedullary nail might be necessary. This is something that you should discuss with your surgeon.