Bone fractures resulting from trauma are a global health problem and a leading source of disablement worldwide. Despite many breakthroughs in treatment of these injuries, patients in less developed nations lack access to these technologies. Fractures of the femur (thigh bone) are typically treated with traction and 2-3 months of bed rest in much of the world, and associated with many complications of prolonged immobilization. Researchers from UCSF Dept. Orthopaedic Surgery, lead by Dr. Saam Morshed, are conducting a landmark study at the Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania to evaluate operative treatment of femur fractures using a low cost medullary implant. This form of treatment, which is the standard of care in most of the developed world, allows rapid mobilization, reliable healing, and improved function. The results of this study could revolutionize the way these devastating injuries are treated for a majority of the worlds population living in less developed nations.