Biomechanical Evaluation of Internal Fixation of Pauwels Type III Femoral Neck Fractures: A Systematic Review of Various Fixation Methods

Background

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate various fixation methods or implants used in the treatment of Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures.

Methods

PubMed Central, OVID Medline, Cochrane Collaboration Library, Web of Science, Embase, and AHRQ databases were searched to identify relevant studies published until August 2017 with English language restriction. Studies were selected on the basis of the following inclusion criteria: biomechanical study of Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures and the use of dynamic hip screw (DHS) or multiple screw fixation or other devices for fixation of the fracture.

Results

A total of 15 studies were included in the systematic review. Eight studies were conducted using cadavers, six studies using sawbones, and one using a finite element model. During the mechanical testing, each study measured mechanical stiffness, failure to cyclic loading, failure to vertical loading of each fixation device. DHS was included in 11 studies, multiple screw fixation in 10 studies, and other devices in six studies. Baitner et al. and Samsami et al. reported that the mechanical stiffness of DHS was superior to three inverted triangular screw fixation. Hawks et al. and Gumustas et al. reported that using a transverse calcar screw can withstand vertical loading better than three inverted triangular screw fixation. In addition, there were some studies where instruments such as Intertan nail, locking plate or other devices showed excellent biomechanical properties.

Conclusions

There are a variety of methods and instruments for fixation of the Pauwels type III fractures. However, it is difficult to conclude that any method is more desirable because there are advantages and disadvantages to each method. Therefore, we should pay attention to the implant choice and consider adequate weight bearing affecting the stiffness of the implant.

Valgus osteotomy in delayed presentation of femoral neck fractures using fixed angle simple dynamic hip screw and plate

PURPOSE

Reduction and fixation in femoral neck fracture in young patients have a problem of nonunion requiring additional procedure like valgus osteotomy but fixation devices are technically difficult for inexperienced surgeons. We aims to assess the results of valgus osteotomy in femoral neck fracture in our setup.

METHODS

We report a series of 20 patients of higher Pauwel's angled fracture of femoral neck fracture presenting late wherein for valgus osteotomy was added to reduction fixation secured with a commonly available 135° dynamic hip screw and plate.

RESULTS

Femoral neck fractures united in 16 patients (80%). Excellent to good results (Harris hip score >80) were seen in 70% patients. Angle of correction of preoperative Pauwels has been changed from 68.3 to 34.3.

CONCLUSION

135° dynamic hip screw and plate provides rigid internal fixation after valgus osteotomy and being a more familiar fixation device simplifies the procedure with good results.

Does surgeon volume influence the outcome after hip hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures; early outcome, complications, and survival of 752 cases

INTRODUCTION

Surgeon volume of hip arthroplasties is of importance with regard to complication and revision rates in total hip arthroplasty. For hip hemiarthroplasty, the effect of surgeon volume on outcome is far less studied. We analyzed the outcome of hip hemiarthroplasties performed by orthopedic surgeons in a retrospective cohort in different volume categories, focusing on early survival of the prosthesis and complications.

METHODS

Between March 2009 and January 2014, 752 hemiarthroplasties were performed for intracapsular femoral neck fracture by 27 orthopedic surgeons in a large Dutch teaching hospital. Surgeons were divided into four groups, a resident group and three groups based on the number of total hip arthroplasties and hemiarthroplasties performed per year: a low-volume (< 10 arthroplasties per year), moderate-volume (10-35 arthroplasties per year), and high-volume groups (> 35 arthroplasties per year). Outcome measures were stem survival using a competing risk analysis, complication rates, and mortality. Chi-square tests were used to compare complication rates and mortality between groups.

RESULTS

Patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years or until revision or death. Overall 60% of the patients included had died at time of follow-up. We found comparable stem survival rates in the low-volume group (n = 48), moderate-volume group (n = 201), high-volume group (n = 446), and resident group (n = 57). There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to dislocation rate, incidence of periprosthetic fracture, infection, and mortality.

CONCLUSION

Surgeon volume and experience did not influence early outcome and complication rates in hip hemiarthroplasty. Hemiarthroplasty can safely be performed by both experienced hip surgeons and low-volume surgeons.

[Analysis of influence of sarcopenia on early postoperative function of femoral neck fracture by hip arthroplasty]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of sarcopenia with short-term postoperative function after hip replacement for femoral neck fractures.

METHODS

A prospective study of 181 consecutive patients with femoral neck fractures who underwent hip replacement from May 2014 to January 2017 were performed, including 58 males and 123 females aging from 53 to 92 years old. The general conditions were collected before surgery, skeletal muscle index(ASMI), handgrip strength were measured. Clinical outcomes were followed up including postoperative complications, time of on-site, Harris score (postoperative 2 weeks, 3, 6 months), hospitalization costs, and hospital stay. According to handgrip strength and ASMI, the patients were divided into the sarcopina group and the non-sarcopina group; according to the Harris score at the 6-month follow-up, the patients were divided into good prognosis group and poor prognosis group. Univariate analysis and binary logistic regression analysis were used to investigate whether sarcopenia was a risk factor for poor postoperative hip joint surgery.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up at 2 weeks, 3 and 6 months, postoperative early complication included wound infection in 16 cases, thrombus of lower extremity veins in 14 cases, no dislocation, prosthetic loosening and prosthesis related infections occurred. Sarcopenia was present in 82 of 181 patients(45%), Compared with non-sarcopenic patients, sarcopenic patients had a higher risk of postoperative complications, longer postoperative hospital stay, more hospital costs and lower harris scores. In Binary logistic analysis revealed that sarcopenia(P=0.08), hemiarthroplasty(P<0.001), diabetes(P=0.016) and infection(P=0.018) were important predictors of unsatisfactory postoperative function.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is an important predictor of poor postoperative prognosis in patients with femoral neck fractures after hip replacement. The treatment for sarcopenia maybe an important way to protect patients with femoral neck fractures from poor prognosis after hip replacement.

[Treatment of Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures with modified percutaneous compression plate]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the preliminary effects of modified percutaneous compression plate in treating femoral neck fractures of Pauwels type III.

METHODS

From March 2012 to March 2016, 35 patients with femoral neck fracture were treated by closed reduction and internal fixation with a modified percutaneous compression plate, including 21 males and 14 females with an average age of 45 years old ranging from 23 to 62 years old. The anatomical position of fracture was divided into 8 cases of lower head type, 27 cases of head and neck. According to the Garden classification, there were 8 cases of type II, 18 of type III, and 9 of type IV fractures. All patients were closed injury. The general information, reduction quality, fracture healing time, postoperative complications were recorded and evaluated. Harris scoring was used to evaluate the hip joint function.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for 15 to 24 months with an average of 20 months. All the incisions were primary healing. The reduction quality of the femoral neck fracture was evaluated according to the Garden's alignment Index, and the quality of reduction was grade I reduction in 29 cases and grade II reduction in 6 cases. No nonunion, femoral avascular necrosis, implant failure and hip varus was observed during follow-up. Harris score was(92.70±4.60) points at final follow-up, the results of the treatment was evaluated as excellent in 26 cases, good in 8 cases, fair in 1 case. No complications such as internal fixation loosening, nail breaking, and heterotopic ossification occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal fixation with modified percutaneous compression plate has an advantages of decreased trauma, simple operation, rigid fixation, good function outcome, and low risk of complications.

Does fully-threaded Headless Compression Screw provide a length-stable fixation in undisplaced femoral neck fractures?

OBJECTIVE

Femoral neck shortening is a common complication after surgical treatment for intracapsular femoral neck fractures. This study investigated whether fully-threaded Headless Compression Screw (FTHCS) can be a more length-stable implant than partially-threaded cannulated screw (PTCS) in reducing femoral neck shortening.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients with undisplaced femoral neck fractures (17 treated by internal fixation with three FTHCS, and 33 treated by three PTCS) from 2011 to 2014 were enrolled in this study. The radiography of the hips and medical records were reviewed for proximal femur geometry and complications.

RESULTS

Significant shortening of the femoral neck length until union were noted in both group (FTHCS group: -2.5 mm, p = 0.045; PTCS group: -2.4 mm, p = 0.011). There was no significant difference in the length of femoral neck shortening between groups (p = 0.855). Age was the only significant risk factor for >5 mm of femoral neck shortening (p = 0.041). The femoral neck-shaft angle tended to reduce and become more varus in both groups (FTHCS: -2.7°, SD = 4.5, p = 0.028; PTCS: -5.0°, SD = 8.3, p = 0.002), but the differences between groups were nonsignificant (p = 0.577). The complication rates were similar between FTHCS and PTCS (17.6% and 21.2%, p > 0.999).

CONCLUSION

The FTHCSs may be a substitute for PTCSs, but it cannot prevent femoral neck shortening and varus collapse after fracture fixation. Future studies should focus on how to preserve femoral neck length and hip function after femoral neck fractures.

Bridging the gap: A technique to avoid limb length discrepancy in arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture - a case report

Equalizing limb length is of paramount importance for optimal outcome in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty(HA). Numerous techniques have been described for avoiding limb length discrepancy (LLD) in patients undergoing HA. However their applicability in patients undergoing HA for neck of femur(NOF) fractures remains questionable due to dissociation between the femur and the head. I hereby describe a novel yet simple technique for better utilization of already established techniques to avoid LLD in NOF fractures undergoing HA. After exposure of hip, the proximal head and neck fragment is extracted taking care not to damage bone at fracture site. Proximal fragment is provisionally fixed to distal fragment in a retrograde manner using 6.5 mm cannulated screws after predrilling over guide wires. Horizontal and vertical offsets are measured. The hip joint is reduced and a mark is made on greater trochanter (GT) utilizing the co-axial stitch method. The joint is dislocated & screws removed.THR is done in a routine manner taking care to establish and recreate native anatomy of hip. Limb length is ascertained utilizing the previous mark on GT. Recreation of proximal femoral anatomy helps in better utilization of already established techniques to avoid LLD and helps us to re-create the native anatomy in HA. It is simple, less time consuming and doesn't require extensive armamentarium or image guidance for its applicability. However it needs to be validated and its advantages might be undermined in old NOF fractures with resorption of the neck or in severely communited fractures.

The clinical application of a novel method of internal fixation for femoral neck fractures-dynamic locking compression system

Background

Femoral neck fractures are the commonly encountered injury in orthopedic practice and result in significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, how to treat femoral neck fractures safely and effectively is still a challenge. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of dynamic compression locking system for femoral neck fractures.

Methods

This is a retrospective study conducted from May 2015 to October 2016. The study included 36 patients suffering from femoral neck fractures who underwent closed reduction and were fixed using dynamic compression locking system. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. The study was conducted by telephone and on-site follow-up. The Garden classification and anatomical site classification were categorized for all patients. We assessed radiographic outcomes of union, femoral neck shortening, screw back-out, and femoral head avascular necrosis. We also evaluated functional outcome using the Harris hip score. Other outcomes included the length of surgery, duration of hospital stay, injury to surgery time, intraoperative hemorrhage, time to clinical bone union, and other fracture complications.

Results

All patients were followed up 12 to 29 months with an average of 21.58 ± 5.41 months. All cases were caused by falls including 17 males and 19 females with an average age of 65.33 ± 9.30 years old ranging from 53 to 82 years old. Among them, injury to surgery time ranged between 1 and 4 days with an average of 2.58 ± 1.05 days. Duration of hospital stay was 8 to 21 days with an average of 15.33 ± 3.71 days. Intraoperative hemorrhage was 40 to 80 ml with an average of 61.67 ± 12.31 ml. Operation time was from 35 to 80 min with average of 50.25 ± 11.77 min. According to Garden classification, 9 cases (25%) were type II and 27 cases (75%) were type III. According to the anatomical site classification, 8 cases (22.2%) were subcapital femoral neck fractures, 19 cases (52.8%) trans-cervical, and 9 cases (25%) basi-cervical. At present, the follow-up has not found the fracture complications of femoral head avascular necrosis, fracture nonunion, and re-fracture. All patients achieved solid bone union. The mean time of clinical bone union was 3 to 4 months. Among all patients, there were only 3 cases of femoral neck shortening < 5 mm and 1 case of screw back-out = 4 mm. For Harris scoring, average Harris scale at the end of the follow-up was 93.42 ± 3.95 ranging from 85 to 98. There were 32 cases of excellent function scores on the Harris scale and 4 cases of good function scores on the Harris scale. Therefore, the excellent and good rate of Harris hip scores was 100%.

Conclusions

Femoral neck dynamic compression locking system for femoral neck fractures in elderly patients can provide effective stability and reduce complications and revision rates.

Comparison of hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty in elderly patients with displaced femoral neck fractures

Objective This study was performed to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of displaced femoral neck fractures (FNFs) treated with either hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty (THA) in elderly patients. Morbidity and mortality were also evaluated. Methods Twenty-two patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty and 16 patients who underwent THA for treatment of Garden type 3-4 FNFs from 2012 to 2015 were enrolled in this study. All patients were >65 years of age. Cox regression analysis was performed for mortality evaluation. Results The postoperative blood loss volume, decrease in the hemoglobin level, and transfusion rate were significantly higher in the THA group. The univariate mortality risk was higher in patients with a Charlson comorbidity score of >4, American Society of Anesthesiologists score of >2, Singh index of <3, and postoperative hospitalization of >1 week. Conclusion This study revealed no significant difference in the short-term clinical and radiological results between cementless hemiarthroplasty and THA in elderly patients with displaced FNFs. However, morbidity and mortality were associated with the presence of additional systemic diseases. THA is the preferred surgical technique in patients with displaced FNFs and low comorbidities.

Risk factors of fixation failure in basicervical femoral neck fracture: Which device is optimal for fixation?

BACKGROUND

Basicervical femur neck fracture (FNF) is a rare type of fracture, and is associated with increased risk of fixation failure due to its inherent instability. The purpose of this study was (1) to investigate the incidence of fixation failure and (2) to determine risk factors for fixation failure in basicervical FNF after internal fixation.

METHODS

To identify basicervical FNF with a minimum of 12 months follow-up, we retrospectively reviewed records of 3217 patients who underwent hip fracture surgery from May 2003 to March 2016. Among the identified 77 patients with basicervical FNF, 69 patients were followed up for at least 12 months. We evaluated the rate of collapse of fracture site and reoperation due to fixation failure. We performed a multivariable analysis to determine risk factors associated with fracture site collapse and fixation failure.

RESULTS

Among the 69 patients with basicervical FNF, 17 (24.6%) showed collapse of fracture site, and 6 (8.6%) underwent conversion to arthroplasty because of fixation failure. In the multivariable analysis, use of extramedullary plating with a sliding hip screw was an independent significant risk factor for both collapse of fracture site (odds ratio 6.84; 95% confidence interval 1.91-24.5, p = 0.003) and fixation failure (odds ratio 12.2; 95% confidence interval 1.08-137.7, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Basicervical FNF treated with extramedullary plate with a sliding hip screw is more likely to fail than that treated with intramedullary nail with a helical blade. Our results suggested that intramedullary nail with a helical blade is more recommended for basicervical FNF compared with extramedullary plate with a sliding hip screw.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Retrospective cohort study.

Evaluation of femoral head viability via bone scintigraphy in the postoperative pediatric patient

BACKGROUND

Evaluating postoperative patients with hardware is challenging following surgical intervention for hip maladies such as femoral neck fractures and slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). These children are at increased risk of developing avascular necrosis, and imaging may be requested to confirm or exclude this diagnosis. Children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease can be monitored for restoration of blood flow to the capital femoral epiphysis to guide management and help with prognosis. Although MRI is sensitive for detecting early avascular necrosis, the presence of hardware degrades image quality.

OBJECTIVE

This report examines the utility of bone scans for evaluating femoral head perfusion in children who have undergone surgery for femoral neck fractures, SCFE or Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 20 patients (22 scans) after fixation for femoral neck fracture, SCFE or Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease from 2012 to 2015 was performed. The bone scan findings were correlated with the intraoperative findings or clinical follow-up.

RESULTS

Twenty-one of the 22 (95%) bone scans in 19 of the 20 (95%) patients demonstrated findings consistent with clinical outcomes and/or the intraoperative appearance of the femoral head. Four of 20 patients (20%) had bone scan features of avascular necrosis, defined as "absent" or "moderately diminished" femoral head activity, which were confirmed intraoperatively and resulted in poor outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Radionuclide imaging of hips in the postoperative setting is a valuable modality for assessing the risk of avascular necrosis, a complication of femoral neck fractures and SCFE and for evaluating the restoration of flow to the capital femoral epiphyses of children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

Learning Curve of Internal Fixation for Nondisplaced Femoral Neck Fractures: A Cumulative Sum Analysis

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a learning curve for internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) technique. We applied the CUSUM technique in monitoring performance of a single surgeon in internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients who underwent internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures were evaluated retrospectively. Loss of fixation within 6 months postoperatively was considered as failure of treatment. Patients were stratified into the early experience group (cases 1 to 25) and the late experience group (cases 26 to 50). The CUSUM method was used to analyze the learning curve.

Results

There was no failure of treatment during study period. The operation time became shorter with experience. Using the CUSUM analysis to plot the learning curve, there was no significant learning curve observed for multiple pinning for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures.

Conclusions

The CUSUM analysis revealed there was no obvious learning curve to become proficient at internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures, if technical principles were followed during the procedure.

[Comparison of clinical effects of total artificial hip replacement and cannulated screw fixation for the treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients]

OBJECTIVE

To compare of clinical effects of different surgical methods in the treatment of elderly femoral neck fractures.

METHODS

From January 2013 to June 2016, 144 elderly patients with femoral neck were treated and divided into artificial hip replacement group and cannulated screw fixation group according to the surgical methods. In the total hip arthroplasty group, there were 89 cases, 28 males and 61 females, with an average age of(84.10±3.10) years old;Hollow nail fixation group 55 cases, 20 males and 35 females, with an average age of (86.80±2.88) years. Preoperative patients data, postoperative complications, mortality and postoperative Harris hip score were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 144 cases were followed up for 12 to 36 months with an average of 18 months. There was no significant difference between two groups in gender, fracture side, preoperative complications, osteoporosis, ASA score, injury to surgery interval, the number of patients admitted to ICU and perioperative death. However, the patients in hollow screw fixation group was older than the joint replacement group(t=5.311, P<0.05);The degree of preoperative fracture displacement in the joint replacement group was higher than that in the hollow nail fixation group(χ²=6.894, P=0.009<0.05);Hollow nail fixation group in operation time, hospital stay, intraoperative blood loss, perioperative blood transfusion was significantly better than the number of joint replacement group(P<0.05);The Harris score of the joint replacement group was higher than that of the hollow screw fixation group(P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

For elderly femoral neck patients, if there is a significant shift in the fracture (Garden III, IV), the preferred treatment is hip replacement. Postoperative complications are relatively small, satisfactory joint function recovery. If the fracture displacement is not obvious (Garden type I, II) or patients with more medical diseases, poor physical condition, poor surgical tolerance, postoperative life expectancy is not high, the first choice is closed reduction and cannulated screw fixation.

Uncemented Thompson's hemiarthroplasty: safe, palliative and cost-effective surgery in the infirm patient-a consecutive series of 1445 cases

BACKGROUND

Guidelines on the management of displaced intracapsular fractures recommend using an Orthopaedic Data Evaluation Panel-rated cemented implant. Prior to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, uncemented implants were commonly used in the UK.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined the outcomes of patients with uncemented Thompson's hemiarthroplasties at our unit, between April 2005 and December 2010. Patients who underwent revision surgery before December 2011 were identified. Implant survival calculation utilised the primary outcome of revision to total hip arthroplasty, revision hemiarthroplasty or excision arthroplasty. Patients who died post-operatively were identified and censored.

RESULTS

A total of 1445 patients received uncemented Thompson's implant. Patient mean age was 82 years with 76% female. Forty-six (3.2%) patients required revision with 15% performed within 30 days of surgery and 62% within 1 year. Reasons for revision were infection (0.83%), acetabular erosion (0.83%) and loosening (0.62%). Twenty-seven patients (59% of total revisions) underwent revision to THA, 14 (30%) to excision arthroplasty and 5 (11%) to revision hemiarthroplasty. Cumulative survival rate was 98% at 1 year and 95% at 5 years. Thirty-day mortality was 7.1%. One-year mortality was 28.1%.

CONCLUSION

Current guidelines strongly favour cemented hemiarthroplasty. Recognition that fractured hip patients are a non-homogeneous group is important. In patients with limited life expectancy, an uncemented Thompson is a quick, simple, palliative solution to early mobilisation. Correct surgical technique avoids using cement in this cohort, which is most vulnerable to bone cement implantation syndrome. Cost-effective resource utilisation with an increasingly elderly population remains a surgical responsibility.

Histological Observation of the Retinacula of Weitbrecht and Its Clinical Significance: A cadaveric study

BACKGROUND

The retinacular arteries provide major supply to the femoral head, their injuries may lead to the femoral head necrosis (FHN) in femoral neck fractures. Although the femoral neck fracture was seriously displaced in some patients, FHN did not occur, which suggests that the blood supply is not fully blocked. This study was aimed to find the association between the structure of the retinacula of Weitbrecht and the mechanism of protecting retinacular arteries from being injured.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen formalin-fixed cadaveric specimens (in 28 hips) with no significant vascular disease were observed. The retinacula were cut longitudinally and then cut into three parts: medial, middle, and lateral. These specimens were stained using hematoxylin and eosin and improved Masson Trichrome stain. The microstructure and tightness of the retinacula fixed to the bone and the distribution of vessels were examined under a stereoscope, an optical microscope, and a scanning electron microscope.

RESULTS

The microstructure and compactness in each part of retinacula were different, and the tightness of the fibers of the retinacula fixed to the bone in each part were different. A particular structure which resembled a Sandwich panels was observed, and it may be an effective mechanism of protecting retinacular arteries.

CONCLUSION

The Sandwich panels structure existed generally in the retinacula of Weitbrecht, and this sandwich panelture may play very important role in protecting the retinaculum artery from being injured, which show the importance of protecting the retinacular artery in the treatment of femoral neck fractures.

Outcomes of nondisplaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures with internal screw fixation in elderly patients: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Although the preferred treatment for displaced femoral neck fractures in the elderly is hip arthroplasty, the treatment for impacted or undisplaced femoral neck fractures (UFNF) is still a subject of controversy. Our purpose was to systematically review studies of elderly patients with UFNF treated with internal fixation using screws: (i) what is the reported mortality; (ii) what is the reoperation rate; (iii) what are the clinical and radiological outcomes; and (iv) what is the methodological quality of the included studies?

METHODS

This systematic review was performed through a search of PubMed and the Cochrane database using a structured search algorithm including studies enrolling patients older than 60 years old, with UFNF treated with internal fixation using screws. Our literature search returned 950 studies and 11 were selected for final abstraction.

RESULTS

6 studies reported mortality rate. At 1-year follow-up mortality was reported by 3 studies: 18.8%; 22%, and 19%. At 5 years, 1 study reported mortality rate of 42%. Overall reoperation rate was reported by 9 studies and ranged from 8%-19%, while conversion to hip arthroplasty was performed in the range between 8% and 16% according to 6 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal fixation with cannulated screws for UFNF in the elderly is a valuable option, although it has substantial reoperation and mortality rates. Further prospective high-quality, randomised controlled trials are required to establish the optimal approach for the treatment of UFNF.

Quadratus femoris muscle pedicle bone flap transplantation in the treatment of femoral neck fracture for Chinese young and middle-aged patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of quadratus femoris muscle pedicle bone flap transplantation combined with hollow compression screw fixation versus AO hollow compression screw fixation in the treatment of femoral neck fracture for Chinese young and middle-aged patients.

METHODS

Case-controlled studies (CCTs) were used to compare the two operative methods in the treatment of femoral neck fractures. Data were retrieved from the Cochrane Library, Pubmed Database, CNKI, Chinese Biomedical Database. Wanfang Data published during the period of January 2005 to December 2014. Methodological quality of the trials was critically assessed, and relevant data were extracted. Statistical Software Revman 5.0 was used for data-analysis.

RESULTS

Eight articles were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that there was statistical significance in the rate of fracture healing [OR = 5.43, 95% CI (2.89, 10.20), p < 0.05], the rate of good function of hip joint [OR = 5.12, 95% CI (3.21, 8.17), p < 0.05], the rate of femoral head necrosis [OR = 4.21, 95% CI (2.02, 8.76), p < 0.05], the time of fracture healing [WMD = -46.85, 95% CI (-65.13, -28.56), p < 0.05] between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

For the treatment of femoral neck fractures, the transplantation of quadratus femoris muscle pedicle bone flap combined with hollow compression screw; fixation is superior to the AO hollow compression screw fixation in terms of the rate; of fracture healing, the rate of good function of hip joint, the rate of femoral head; necrosis and the time of fracture healing.

Risk Factors for Neck Shortening in Patients with Valgus Impacted Femoral Neck Fractures Treated with Three Parallel Screws: Is Bone Density an Affecting Factor?

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between significant femoral neck shortening (SFNS) and bone density after three parallel screw fixation in valgus impacted femoral neck fracture, and to analyze the risk factors for SFNS.

Materials and Methods

This is retrospective study of 83 patients. We performed univariate analysis for patient information, bone density, fracture configuration and screw position divided into SFNS group (n=13) and non-SFNS group (n=70) and performed multivariate analysis using logistic regression model. We also analyzed the relationship between SFNS and complications such as osteonecrosis of femoral head and nonunion.

Results

There was a significant difference in age, screw non-parallelism and bone mineral density of intertrochanteric and total hip area in the univariate analysis between the two groups (P<0.05). In multivariate analysis, old age (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-1.21) and screw non-parallelism (OR, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.44-6.59) were significant risk factors for SFNS. The incidence of SFNS was significantly higher in the complication group (P=0.027).

Conclusion

Bone density did not significantly affect SFNS in valgus impacted femoral neck fractures treated with three parallel screws. The risk factors of SFNS were old age and screw non-parallelism. Therefore, we recommend using other fixation method to prevent SFNS in older ages and making the screw position as parallel as possible when performing screw fixation in valgus impacted femoral neck fracture.

Focal osteonecrosis in the femoral head following stable anatomic fixation of displaced femoral neck fractures

INTRODUCTION

Femoral head (FH) osteonecrosis (ON) and subsequent segmental collapse is a major concern following displaced femoral neck fractures (FNF). We aimed to quantify residual perfusion to the FH following FNF and evaluate the viability of the FH overtime after surgical fixation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-three patients with FNF underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI to estimate bone perfusion in the FH, using the contralateral side as control. Following open anatomic reduction and a length/angle-stable fixation, a special MRI sequence evaluated the FH for ON changes over time at 3 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

We found significant compromise of both arterial inflow [83.1%-initial area under the curve (IAUC) and 73.8%-peak) and venous outflow (243.2%-elimination rate (K _el)] in the FH of the fractured side. The supero-medial quadrant suffered the greatest decrease in arterial inflow with a significant decrease of 71.6% (IAUC) and 68.5% (peak). Post-operative MRI revealed a high rate (87%-20/23) of small ON segments within the FH, and all developed in the anterior aspect of the supero-medial quadrants. Fracture characteristics, including subcapital FNF, varus deformity, posterior roll-off ≥20° and Pauwel's angle of 30°-50° demonstrated a greater decrease in perfusion compared to contralateral controls.

CONCLUSION

FNF significantly impaired the vascular supply to the FH, resulting in high incidence of small ON segments in the supero-medial quadrant of the FH. However, maintained perfusion, probably through the inferior retinacular system, coupled with urgent open anatomic reduction and stable fixation resulted in excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes despite a high rate of small ON segments noted on MRI.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I: Prognostic Investigation.

Numerical Optimization of the Position in Femoral Head of Proximal Locking Screws of Proximal Femoral Nail System; Biomechanical Study

Background:

Proximal femoral fracture rates are increasing due to osteoporosis and traffic accidents. Proximal femoral nails are routinely used in the treatment of these fractures in the proximal femur.

Aims:

To compare various combinations and to determine the ideal proximal lag screw position in pertrochanteric fractures (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen classification 31-A1) of the femur by using optimized finite element analysis.

Study Design:

Biomechanical study.

Methods:

Computed tomography images of patients’ right femurs were processed with Mimics. Afterwards a solid femur model was created with SolidWorks 2015 and transferred to ANSYS Workbench 16.0 for response surface optimization analysis which was carried out according to anterior-posterior (-10°<anterior-posterior<10°), inferior-superior (-6°<inferior-superior<7°) and tip-apex distance (10 mm<tip-apex distance<30 mm) proximal lag screw positions in the fracture region. The optimum position of the proximal lag screw was determined based on the von Mises stress values occurring on the fracture line. Initial analysis of the system was realized under the surgeon’s normal positioning conditions (anterior-posterior, inferior-superior=0°; tip-apex distance=12 mm).

Results:

The maximum and minimum (compression) von Mises stresses were found to be 438 MPa and 0.003 MPa, respectively, and risky stresses for the system occurred in the regions where the proximal lag screw passes through the proximal femoral nail hole, the small diameter portion of stem joints with a large diameter and lag screw mounts to the stem. The most suitable position of the proximal lag screw was found at the middle position of the tip-apex distance (20 mm) and femoral neck (anterior-posterior, inferior-superior=0°), according to von Mises compression stress values occurring on the fracture line.

Conclusion:

In our study, we couldn’t find any correlation between proximal lag screw movement and tip-apex distance on stresses of the fracture surfaces, but the proximal lag screw position in the inferior (inferior-superior<0)-superior (inferior-superior>0) and posterior-anterior directions of the femur neck significantly increased these stresses. The most suitable position of the proximal lag screw was confirmed as the middle of the femoral neck by using optimized finite element analysis.

Outcome of bone marrow instillation at fracture site in intracapsular fracture of femoral neck treated by head preserving surgery

PURPOSE

The aim of present study is to evaluate the outcome of bone marrow instillation at the fracture site in fracture of intracapsular neck femur treated by head preserving surgery.

METHODS

This study included 32 patients of age group 18-50 years with closed fracture of intracapsular neck femur. Patients were randomized into two groups as per the plan generated via www.randomization.com. The two groups were Group A (control), in which the fracture of intracapsular neck femur was treated by closed reduction and cannulated cancellous screw fixation, and Group B (intervention), in which additional percutaneous autologous bone marrow aspirate instillation at fracture site was done along with cannulated cancellous screw fixation. Postoperatively the union at fracture site and avascular necrosis of the femoral head were assessed on serial plain radiographs at final follow-up. Functional outcome was evaluated by Harris hip score.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was 19.6 months. Twelve patients in each group had union and 4 patients had signs of nonunion. One patient from each group had avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The average Harris hip score at final follow-up in Group A was 80.50 and in Group B was 75.73, which was found to be not significant.

CONCLUSION

There is no significant role of adding on bone marrow aspirate instillation at the fracture site in cases of fresh fracture of intracapsular neck femur treated by head preserving surgery in terms of accelerating the bone healing and reducing the incidence of femoral head necrosis.

NHSLA litigation in hip fractures: Lessons learnt from NHSLA data

Hip fractures are a major cause of trauma related death, usually occurring in vulnerable elderly patients. There are an estimated 70,000 hip fractures in the UK per year with numbers set to rise. The estimated annual cost to the healthcare economy is in the region of £2 billion. A 17-year review examining litigation related to hip fractures was undertaken. Under a freedom of information request, data was obtained relating to all orthopaedic claims made to the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) between 1995 and 2012. Data was filtered to identify cases involving hip fractures examining litigation trends related to this specific area. 10263 NHSLA orthopaedic cases were identified, of which 13.3% (n=1364) cases related to the hip and femur. Hip fractures made up 16.7% (n=229). The total cost of hip fracture litigation was over £7 million with an average cost per case of £32,700. The commonest reasons for litigation were diagnostic errors (30.6%), issues with care (24.9%) alleged incompetent surgery (15.7%) and development of pressure sores (5.7%). This study highlights the main causes of litigation in patients sustaining hip fractures, with diagnosis in the emergency department and ward presenting a significant problem. In addition, the data identifies a range of care related issues, as well as several surgical factors and highlights the importance of pressure area care. We discuss these and make suggestions on how to improve practice in this area with the aim of improving patient care and reducing litigation.

SURVIVAL OF NONAGENARIAN PATIENTS WITH HIP FRACTURES: A COHORT STUDY

Objective:

The objective of this study was to assess survival and factors that may influence survival in nonagenarians with hip fracture.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 134 nonagenarian patients admitted for hip fractures over a period of 9 years, and reviewed medical records and survival data from the National Population Register. The analysis included demographic data, ASA score, surgical delay, type of treatment, and mortality.

Results:

Mean patient age was 92.53 years (range 90-103 years). Of the total, 35.8% of the fractures involved the femoral neck and 64.2% were in the trochanteric region. Overall mortality was 18.7% at 30 days, and 9% at one year. Mean survival for the entire sample was 683±78.1 days, with a median of 339 days; survival in men and women was 595±136.8 days and 734±94.6 days, respectively. We found that type of fracture (p=0.026) and ASA score (p=0.004) were the main factors influencing survival. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that patients with extracapsular fractures treated by internal fixation had a better survival rate (p=0.047). There was no significant differences between sexes (p = 0.102) or diagnosis (p = 0.537)

Conclusion:

Although nonagenarian patients have numerous comorbidities, surgical treatment using internal fixation seems superior to a conservative approach. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

Modified dynamic hip screw loaded with autologous bone graft for treating Pauwels type-3 vertical femoral neck fractures

INTRODUCTION

Management of Pauwels type-3 vertical femoral neck fractures has been a challenging clinical problem as they experience high shear forces and thus a greater risk of treatment failure. There is no apparent consensus on the optimal implant type for these injuries. We developed a modified dynamic hip screw (DHS), which was designed to a cage in the lag screw, loaded with autologous bone graft for the treatment of Pauwels type-3 vertical femoral neck fractures.

METHODS

Between February 2010 and January 2012, 17 consecutive patients with Pauwels type-3 vertical femoral neck fractures were treated with the modified DHS loaded with autologous bone graft. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 24 months (range, 24-36 months). Surgical details, operative and postoperative complications, the rates of nonunion and osteonecrosis and the Harris hip score were evaluated.

RESULTS

There were thirteen men and four women with a mean age of 37.2 years (range, 27-52 years). There were no intraoperative complications related to this technology. All fractures healed within 14.1 weeks (range, 12 to 20 weeks). One patient required total hip replacement because of avascular necrosis of the femoral head at 27 months after surgery. According to the Harris hip score, eleven patients (64.7%) had excellent results, four (23.5%) had good results, one (5.9%) had moderate and one (5.9%) had poor result.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified DHS loaded with autologous bone graft appears to be a reliable implant for the treatment of Pauwels type-3 vertical femoral neck fractures with fewer complications.

MORTALITY AND FUNCTION AFTER SURGICALLY-TREATED HIP FRACTURE IN ADULTS YOUNGER THAN AGE 60

Objective:

Hip fractures in young adults can cause poor functional capacity throughout life because of several complications. The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate 1-year mortality and functional outcomes for patients aged 60 years or younger with hip fracture .

Methods:

We prospectively obtained data for all consecutive patients aged 60 or younger with any type of hip fracture who were treated operatively between 2008 and 2014. After one year, patient outcomes were evaluated according to changes in pain severity, functional status (modified Barthel index), and mortality rate .

Results:

Of the total of 201 patients, 132 (65.7%) were men (mean age: 41.8 years) and 69 (34.3%) were women (mean age: 50.2 years) (p<0.001). Reduced pain severity was reported in 91.5% of the patients. The mean modified Barthel index was 22.3 in men and 18.6 in women (p<0.001). At the one-year follow-up, 39 cases (19.4%) were dependent on walking aids while only 17 patients (8.5%) used walking aids preoperatively (p<0.001). Seven patients (4 men and 3 women) died during the one-year follow-up period; 2 died in the hospital after surgery .

Conclusion:

Hip fractures in young adults have a low mortality rate, reduction in pain severity, and acceptable functional outcomes one year after surgery. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study.

Effect of rivaroxaban on preventing deep vein thrombosis in aged diabetics with femoral neck fractures after hip replacement

The present study estimates the effect of rivaroxaban on preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in aged diabetics with femoral neck fractures after hip replacement. Our study consisted of 236 aged diabetics with femoral neck fractures, which were divided into the rivaroxaban and control groups. Reaction time (R time), clot formation time (K time), α angle (α), maximum amplitude (MA), clot elasticity (G) and coagulation index (CI), prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were measured. DVT was diagnosed by color duplex Doppler ultrasound (CDDU). The risk factors of DVT were analysed by logistic regression analysis. Compared with the control group, in the rivaroxaban group, R time and K time were extended and α, MA and G decreased 1 day before operation. One day after operation, the rivaroxaban group had less PT and APPT and lower incidence of DVT than the control group. In the two groups, preoperative and postoperative PT and APPT significantly differed. Body mass index (BMI) ≥25, abnormal coagulation indicators, use of cemented femoral hip prosthesis, high haemoglobin content and non-ankle pump exercise after operation were the risk factors for DVT. Rivaroxaban could prevent DVT in aged diabetics with femoral neck fractures after hip replacement.

Does femoral offset recover and affect the functional outcome of patients with displaced femoral neck fracture following hemiarthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Restoring preoperative horizontal femoral offset (FO) promised good functional outcome in patients receiving total hip arthroplasty. However, relatively little was known regarding the clinical relevance of restoring the offset in patients with bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat displaced femoral neck fracture. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate postoperative FO accurately and verify its relation with functional outcome.

METHODS

One hundred elderly patients who received bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat displaced femoral neck fracture were identified. Preoperative CT scanning of contralateral hip joint and reconstruction of images led to rotation-free FO. By referencing postoperative implant specification and comparing to measured values in Picture Archive and Communication System, rotation-free postoperative FO and the amount of change were acquired. Postoperative Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Modified Barthel Index (MBI) were evaluated to measure functional outcome at 12-month after the surgery. Patients with significant FO change were identified. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine if the FO change might independently affect the outcome regardless of confounding factors.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative offset was 37.4±2.5 increased by 12.7±9.6% after the surgery. Only 25.0% of postoperative offset after hemiarthroplasty was changed within ±5% of preoperative offset. A total of 45.0% of postoperative offset changed within ±10% while 77.0% of postoperative offset changed within ±20%. 23% of patients whose FO changed more than 20% showed significantly worse outcome score than the patients whose FO change remained within ±20% of initial value. Mean MBI and HHS were negatively correlated with FO change. After adjusting for confounding factors, significant correlation remained between modification of FO and MBI, but not between FO change and HHS (B=4.576; β=0.235; 95% confidence interval of B: 0.534 to 8.135).

CONCLUSIONS

FO was not properly restored in 23% of subjects receiving bipolar hemiarthroplasty due to femoral neck fracture. FO restoration independently predicted fair MBI after the surgery. Therefore, surgeons should pay attention to restoring FO with meticulous templating.

Maximum Tolerated Dose of Walking for Community-Dwelling People Recovering From Hip Fracture: A Dose-Response Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine how much moderate-intensity physical activity, in the form of walking, could be prescribed for people living in the community after hip fracture in terms of safety, tolerability, and feasibility.

DESIGN

Phase I dose-response design.

SETTING

Public community rehabilitation centers.

PARTICIPANTS

Community-dwelling adults (N=21; 16 women; mean age, 75±9y) who were cognitively alert, attending community rehabilitation after hip fracture (mean days postfracture, 110±47d), able to walk with or without a gait aid, and for whom it was safe to participate in physical activity.

INTERVENTIONS

Individually supervised doses of moderate-intensity walking completed in 1 week in addition to their usual levels of physical activity. Three participants were required to complete a dose of walking before dose escalation for the next cohort of 3 participants. Dose escalation ceased when >1 participant in a cohort had an adverse event or was unable to tolerate the dose or if the maximum dose of 150min/wk was achieved.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Maximum tolerated dose of walking per week (in minutes), adverse events, mobility, and walking confidence.

RESULTS

The maximum tolerated dose of walking for adults after hip fracture before significant discomfort was experienced (eg, breathlessness, pain, and fatigue) by any participant was 100min/wk. No adverse events occurred, but participants began to be unable to tolerate higher doses beyond 100min/wk.

CONCLUSIONS

This provides preliminary evidence that community-dwelling older adults recovering from hip fracture can complete a sufficient amount of moderate-intensity physical activity to maintain and improve their health.

Giant cell tumor of the femoral neck: case report

The authors present the case of a patient with a giant cell tumor of the left femoral neck, with adjacent progressive invasion of bone tissue. Initial treatment was done with local curettage and autologous bone graft from fibula, electrocauterization and filling with methyl methacrylate. A local tumoral relapse was present after one year; therefore a new surgical procedure was necessary, with proximal femoral wide resection and unconventional endoprosthesis fixation. The article discusses the clinical aspects and surgical treatment. This report aimed to demonstrate the necessity to perform wide resection for giant cell tumor of the femoral neck, prioritizing total resection of the tumor and its local extension, preserving limb integrity and demonstrating the complete failure of preserving surgery in cases of femoral neck involvement.

Bilateral stress fracture of femoral neck in non-athlete - case report

Bilateral stress fracture of femoral neck in healthy young patients is an extremely rare entity, whose diagnostic and treatment represent a major challenge. Patients with history of hip pain, even non-athletes or military recruits, should be analyzed to achieve an early diagnosis and prevent possible complications from the surgical treatment. This report describes a 43-year-old male patient, non-athlete, without previous diseases, who developed bilateral stress fracture of femoral neck without displacement. He had a late diagnosis; bilateral osteosynthesis was made using cannulated screws. Although the diagnosis was delayed in this case, the study highlights the importance of the diagnosis of stress fracture, regardless of the activity level of the patients, for the success of the treatment.

Hemiarthroplasty versus internal fixation in super-aged patients with undisplaced femoral neck fractures: a 5-year follow-up of randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

There were higher rates of revision, complication, non-union, delayed union, and poorer functional outcomes reported in super-aged patients of undisplaced femoral neck fractures treated with internal fixation. Therefore, we designed this randomized comparative study aiming to compare the effectiveness and long-term follow-up results of hemiarthroplasty (HA) with that of multiple cannulated screws (MCS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eligible participants were randomly assigned into two groups for different methods of operation (hemiarthroplasty group and internal fixation group). The related indexes and data of two groups were collected for comparative analysis during the average follow-up period of 38.68 ± 28.24 months.

RESULTS

There were only two patients performed reoperation in HA group, and the reoperation rate of HA group (5.41%, 2/37) was significantly lower than that of IF group (21.4%, 9/41) (P value = 0.000). The comparison of survival curves for reoperation showed significant differences between two groups (P value = 0.031).The results of Cox proportional hazards model suggested that only operation method significantly affected the occurrence of reoperation (P value = 0.049). The results of survival analysis showed that there was no significant difference in survival time between two groups (P value = 0.682). And in the Cox proportional hazards model, only age significantly affected the occurrence of death (P value = 0.000). The average Harris scores of two groups were all above 75 points, and there was no significant difference in Harris scores between the two groups (P value greater than 0.05). But in the early term follow-up, the excellent and good rate of hip joint function in HA group was significantly higher than that in IF group (P value less than 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Hemiarthroplasty with less postoperative complications, low reoperation rate and better function recovery in early stage provide a good choice for the treatment of super-aged patients with nondisplaced femoral neck fracture.

Comparative Study of Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Femur Neck Fractures Treated with Cemented versus Cementless Stem

PURPOSE

To compare and analyze clinical and radiologic outcomes of cemented versus cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty for treatment of femur neck fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 180 patients aged 65 years and over older who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty for treatment of displaced femur neck fractures (Garden stage III, IV) from March 2009 to February 2014 were included in this study. Among the 180 patients, 115 were treated with cemented stems and 65 patients with cementless stems. Clinical outcomes assessed were: i) postoperative ambulatory status, ii) inguinal and thigh pain, and iii) complications. The radiologic outcome was femoral stem subsidence measured using postoperative simple X-ray.

RESULTS

The cemented group had significantly lower occurrence of complications (postoperative infection, P=0.04) compared to the cementless group. There was no significant difference in postoperative ambulatory status, inguinal and thigh pain, and femoral stem subsidence.

CONCLUSION

For patients undergoing bipolar hemiarthroplasty, other than complications, there was no statistically significant difference in clinical or radiologic outcomes in our study. Selective use of cemented stem in bipolar hemiarthroplasty may be a desirable treatment method for patients with poor bone quality and higher risk of infections.

A computer-assisted systematic quality monitoring method for cervical hip fracture radiography

BACKGROUND

A thorough quality analysis of radiologic performance is cumbersome. Instead, the prevalence of missed cervical hip fractures might be used as a quality indicator.

PURPOSE

To validate a computer-based quality study of cervical hip fracture radiography.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

True and false negative and positive hip trauma radiography during 6 years was assessed manually. Patients with two or more radiologic hip examinations before surgery were selected by computer analysis of the databases. The first of two preoperative examinations might constitute a missed fracture. These cases were reviewed.

RESULTS

Out of 1621 cervical hip fractures, manual perusal found 51 (3.1%) false negative radiographic diagnoses. Among approximately 14,000 radiographic hip examinations, there were 27 (0.2%) false positive diagnoses. Fifty-seven percent of false negative reports were occult fractures, the other diagnostic mistakes. There were no significant differences over the years. Diagnostic sensitivity was 96.9% and specificity 99.8%. Computer-assisted analysis with a time interval of at least 120 days between the first and the second radiographic examination discovered 39 of the 51 false negative reports.

CONCLUSION

Cervical hip trauma radiography has high sensitivity and specificity. With computer-assisted analysis, 76% of false negative reports were found.

Reoperations and mortality in 383 patients operated with parallel screws for Garden I-II femoral neck fractures with up to ten years follow-up

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to identify indications and predictors for subsequent surgeries in the same hip and to evaluate life expectancy following screw fixation of undisplaced femoral neck fractures (FNF). The study further aimed to determine the necessary follow-up time for future studies aiming to evaluate the treatment of such fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective cohort study with prospectively collected data including skeletally mature patients with undisplaced FNFs operated between 2005 and 2013. Gender, age at fracture, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, smoking status and excess use of alcohol were retrieved from electronical medical records. Further, complications leading to all consecutive reoperations were registered along with time from primary operation to all reoperations, type of procedure during subsequent surgeries and time of death.

RESULTS

383 patients with a median (range) follow-up of 77 (23-125) months were identified. Within 1, 2 and 5 years from primary surgery, 8%, 17% and 21% respectively, had at least one subsequent surgery in the same hip. 10% of the patients underwent salvage arthroplasty, however, in long time survivors; conversion to arthroplasty was estimated in one out of four. Posterior tilt of the femoral head was a predictor for new surgeries due to instability of the bone-implant construct, but not for later avascular necrosis. For patients 70 years or older, the one-year mortality in men was 32% with an expected survival of approx. 2.5 years, compared to 17% and 5.5 years in women.

CONCLUSIONS

Screw fixation of undisplaced femoral neck fractures appears to be a safe procedure in particular in the absence of a posterior tilt of the femoral head. Conversion to arthroplasty was estimated to occur in one out of four of long time survivors. Men have a particularly poor medical prognosis and should receive careful medical attention. In order to capture 80% of reoperations, clinical studies and register studies must have a follow-up time of at least two years.

[Case-control study on retaining articular capsule in the total hip replacement for old patients with unstable femoral neck fractures]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of reserving articular capsule and traditional total hip replacement for old patients with unstable femoral neck fractures.

METHODS

From January 2010 to January 2015, one hundred and twenty patients with femoral neck fracture were retrospective review. Among them, sixty patients were treated with total hip arthroplasty reserving articular capsule, the others were treated with traditional total hip arthroplasty without reserving articular capsule. The gender of reserving articular capsule group and traditional group were (male/female) 34/26, 31/29 respectively; the age were (73.4±4.4), (72.3±4.1) years old, respectively. All patients were followed up for six months, the operation time, blood loss, length of stay, incidence of postoperative complications, incidence of postoperative hip dislocation and hip Harris score of the two groups were observed.

RESULTS

The operative time of the reserving articular capsule group and traditional group were (95.68±6.90), (93.39±7.90) min (P>0.05), and the blood loss were (998.78±15.20), (1 000.25±16.80) ml (P>0.05). The time for hospital stay were (10.74±2.90), (13.25±2.20) days(P<0.05). The Harris scores were 58.53±5.10, 49.38±4.90(P<0.05) at 1 month after operation;91.08±7.50, 90.74±7.10(P>0.05) at 6 months after operation.

CONCLUSIONS

The method of reserving auricular capsule can not increase the operative time and the blood loss. But it has a favorable effect on decreasing the hospital stay, complication, the rate of early dislocation of the hip joint, improving the function of hip joint.

Three-year outcomes of intracapsular femoral neck fractures fixed with sliding hip screws in adults aged under sixty-five years

INTRODUCTION

Intracapsular femoral neck fractures remain associated with high rates of post-traumatic femoral head necrosis, non-union, and revision surgery.

AIM

Our aim was to identify factors associated with revision surgery in intracapsular femoral neck fractures treated with sliding hip screws (SHS) in adults aged <65 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive admissions were identified retrospectively from the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, which was the largest volume hospital on the National Hip Fracture Database. Of 2201 hip fractures between 1st August 2008 and 31st December 2010, 97 (4%) intracapsular fractures treated with SHS in adults <65 years were followed for a mean of 2.9 years (range 0-6.6).

RESULTS

Twenty-one (22%) hips were revised to arthroplasty. Avascular necrosis developed in 28 (29%) femoral heads. Eight (8%) fractures proceeded to non-union. Displaced fractures (p<0.001, Fisher's exact [FE]), posterior comminution (p=0.049, FE), chronic respiratory disease (p=0.006, FE) and residual distraction (p=0.011, χ²) were associated with revision to arthroplasty. Multiple regression found displaced fractures (p=0.006) and chronic respiratory disease (p=0.017) significant; in the latter 4 of 6 were revised (67%), including all four patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Eleven (11%) individuals required walking aids before injury, which rose to 34 (35%) at one year (p<0.0001, χ²). Eighty-nine (92%) individuals could walk alone outdoors before injury, but only 76 (78%) at one year (p=0.009, χ²).

CONCLUSIONS

Displaced fractures in individuals with chronic respiratory disease should be considered high risk for revision to arthroplasty. Posterior cortex deficiency should be evaluated prior to choice of operation. Fracture biology and revascularisation play a greater role than operation timing. A significant proportion of individuals do not recovery pre-morbid mobility by one year.

The impact of helipad designation on meeting the best practice tariff for fractured neck of femur cases in a major trauma centre

Hip fractures represent a significant burden to the NHS: the cost for all UK hip fractures is approximately £2 billion and in 2013, 64 838 people were admitted to hospital with a fractured neck of femur (FNOF). In April 2010 St George's NHS Hospital was designated one of four Major Trauma Centres (MTC) in London. Following MTC designation, in April 2014 St George's Hospital opened a helipad. This study aimed to assess the impact of the helipad designation on the Trust's ability to meet the Best Practice Tariff (BPT) criteria for FNOF patients. Two samples were analysed: 'pre-helipad' (from October 2013 to March 2014) during which 125 patients presented with FNOF, and 'post-helipad' (from April 2014 to September 2014) during which 122 patients presented with FNOF. The percentage of cases receiving surgery within 36 h, receiving joint care of a consultant geriatrician and a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, and receiving assessment by a geriatrician in the perioperative period were found not to have been negatively impacted by the helipad. However, completion of routine recommended assessments including admission using the agreed assessment protocol (96.6% vs. 50%, p < 0.05) and completion of two Abbreviated Mental Test (AMT) scores (74.7% vs. 58%, p = 0.007) were found to have been compromised.

Use of the supercapsular percutaneously assisted total hip approach for femoral neck fractures: surgical technique and case series

Background

Femoral neck fractures are common injuries in the geriatric population associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Studies have shown outcomes can be positively influenced by early postoperative mobilization. The supercapsular percutaneously assisted total hip (SuperPath) surgical technique has been shown to lead to early mobilization for osteoarthritic total hip replacement patients and as such has the potential to provide similar benefits in fracture patients. This manuscript provides a detailed description of this technique using hemiarthroplasty to treat femoral neck fractures and presents the first case series of this application.

Methods

Seventeen patients with femoral neck fractures managed with this technique at two separate institutions were reviewed. In an attempt to minimize blood loss and enhance early mobilization, hemiarthroplasty utilizing the SuperPath technique was performed. The authors noticed decreased blood loss, operative time, and postoperative narcotic usage when compared to their previous experiences using traditional techniques.

Conclusions

Early mobilization following femoral neck fractures has been shown to decrease mortality and morbidity. There is little existing literature on the use of tissue-sparing surgical techniques for this application, and none details the use of the SuperPath technique for it. The described case reports suggest the technique is a viable option for bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat femoral neck fractures. Appropriately designed future studies are needed to confirm findings and definitively compare outcomes to traditional approaches.

Bilateral simultaneous neck femur fracture following domestic fall in an elderly patient: a rare case report

Simultaneous bilateral neck femur fracture is a rare entity that has been associated with underlying bone disease, various metabolic diseases, high-energy trauma, and seizure disorders. Its occurrence following minimal trauma is very rare. This article presents the case of a 66-year-old female who sustained bilateral intracapsular fracture neck femur following a slip and fall at home. Single-stage bilateral cemented total hip replacement was done using a direct lateral approach with alternate right and left lateral positions. The authors report a satisfactory outcome, with Harris hip score of 98 at one year, which persisted until her last follow-up at 30 months.

Quality of life following hip fractures: results from the Norwegian hip fracture register

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported health-related quality of life is an important outcome measure when assessing the quality of hip fracture surgery. The frequently used EQ-5D index score has unfortunately important limitations. One alternative can be to assess the distribution of each of the five dimensions of the patients' descriptive health profile. The objective of this paper was to investigate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after hip fractures.

METHODS

Data from hip fracture operations from 2005 through 2012 were obtained from The Norwegian Hip Fracture Register. Patient reported HRQoL, (EQ-5D-3L) was collected from patients preoperatively and at four and twelve months postoperatively n = 10325. At each follow-up the distribution of the EQ-5D-3L and mean pain VAS was calculated.

RESULTS

Generally, a higher proportion of patients reported problems in all 5 dimensions of the EQ-5D-3L at all follow-ups compared to preoperative. Also a high proportion of patients with no preoperative problems reported problems after surgery; At 4 and 12 months follow-ups 71 % and 58 % of the patients reported walking problems, and 65 % and 59 % of the patients reported pain respectively. Patients with femoral neck fractures and the youngest patients (age < 70 years) reported least problems both preoperatively and at all follow-ups.

CONCLUSIONS

A hip fracture has a dramatic impact on the patients' HRQoL, and the deterioration in HRQoL sustained also one year after the fracture. Separate use of the descriptive profile of the EQ-5D is informative when assessing quality of life after hip fracture surgery.

Enhanced recovery after surgery: An opportunity to improve fractured neck of femur management

Introduction Approximately 67,000 hip fractures occurred in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2014, and annual hospital costs for fracture are around £1.1 billion. We review the potential scope for improving length of stay (LOS). Methods Hospital Episode Statistics data on non-elective admissions to 137 hospital trusts between November 2013 and October 2015 with a primary diagnosis of fractured neck of femur were analysed. The primary outcome was superspell LOS, which is the total LOS for all related spells for a single patient during an episode of care. Secondary outcomes were discharge to home, readmission at 28 days and in-hospital mortality. Results The mean observed LOS was 22.1±3.8 days (range 12.3-33.7 days). The range for case mix-adjusted expected LOS was 21.5-24.4 days. On average, 6.7±1.5% (range 3.6%-10.9%) of patients died while in hospital, at a relative risk of in-hospital mortality of 28.2-182.9. A mean of 12.3±3.2% (range 3.9% to 23.0%) of patients were readmitted at 28 days, at a relative relative risk of 34.8-203.2. Conclusions The wide range of observed LOS in our study is unlikely to be due to the case mix, as the case mix-adjusted range of LOS is less than 3 days, but rather due to local processes and pathways. There is therefore considerable scope for quality and efficiency of care improvements in our hospitals. We propose this could be best achieved if clinicians experienced in enhanced recovery focused on FNOF pathways.

Nonvascularized fibular grafting in nonunion of femoral neck fracture: A systematic review

Nonunion of femoral neck fractures following primary fixation and neglected femoral neck fracture in young adults is a challenging task. Every effort should be directed toward hip joint salvage in these patients. Among different available options of hip salvage, nonvascularized fibular graft (NVFG) osteosynthesis is simple, easy to perform, and a successful technique. In this review, the available literature on NVFG in neglected and nonunion femoral neck fractures has been analyzed. After review of 15 articles on NVFG, the average nonunion rate was estimated to be 7.86% (range 0-31%). Six articles that evaluated the preoperative and postoperative osteonecrosis reported improvement in 50% patients. The clinical and/or functional outcome was good to excellent in 56-96% patients following fibular osteosynthesis. Few complications such as coxa vara deformity, limb shortening, and intraarticular penetration of the graft or hardware have been reported. However, there are minimal donor site morbidities such as mild ankle pain, transient loss of toe flexors and extensors and transient lateral popliteal nerve palsy.

Prophylactic proton pump inhibitors in femoral neck fracture patients - A life - and cost-saving intervention

Introduction Acute gastrointestinal stress ulceration is a common and serious complication of trauma. Prophylactic proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine receptor antagonists have been used in poly-trauma, burns and head and spinal injuries, as well as on intensive care units, for the prevention of acute gastric stress ulcers. Methods We prospectively studied the use of prophylactic PPIs in with femoral neck fracture patients, gathering data on all acute gastric ulcer complications, including coffee-ground vomiting, malena and haematemesis. We then implemented a treatment protocol in which all patients were given prophylactic PPIs, again prospectively collecting all data. Results Five hundred and fifteen patients were included. Prior to prophylactic PPI, 15% of patients developed gastric stress ulcer complications, with 3% requiring acute intervention with oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD), 5% requiring transfusions and 4% experiencing surgical delays. All patients had delayed discharges. Following PPI implementation, no patients developed gastric stress ulcer complications. Conclusions Femoral neck fracture patients create a substantial workload for orthopaedic units. The increasingly elderly population often have comorbidities, and concomitantly use medications with gastrointestinal side effects. This, combined with the stress of a fracture and preoperative starvation periods increases the risk of gastric ulcers. Here, the use of prophylactic PPIs statistically reduced the incidence of gastric stress ulcers in patients with femoral neck fractures, resulting in fewer surgical delays, reduced length of hospital stay and reduced stress ulcer-related mortality.

Risk Factors Associated with Dislocation after Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in Elderly Patients with Femoral Neck Fracture

Purpose

We investigated the incidence and time of dislocation and other factors associated with dislocation of bipolar hemiarthroplasty related to the treatment of femoral neck fracture in old age patients.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2002 and April 2014, 498 femoral neck fractures (467 patients) were treated with bipolar hemiarthroplasty and included in this study. All surgeries were performed using the postero-lateral approach. The incidence of dislocation was investigated. A comparative analysis between a control group and dislocation group was performed with respect to patient factors including age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, the ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) score, mental status and center-edge angle, and surgical factors including type of femoral stem, leg length discrepancy, femoral offset and method of short external rotator (SER) reconstruction.

Results

The incidence of dislocation was 3.8%, and the dislocation occurred on average 2.2 months (range, 0.6-6.5 months) after operation. No difference in patient-related factors was observed between the two groups. However, a smaller center edge (CE) angle was observed in the dislocation group (42.1°±3.2° vs. 46.9°±5.4°, P<0.001), and significantly lower incidence of dislocation was observed in tendon to bone repair group (0.7% vs 7.8%, P<0.001).

Conclusion

SERs should be repaired using the tendon-to-bone repair method to reduce dislocation rate in elderly patients who undergo bipolar hemiarthroplasty using the postero-lateral approach due to femoral neck fracture. In addition, patients with smaller CE angle should be carefully monitored due to high incidence of dislocation.

Clinical Results of Internal Fixation of Subcapital Femoral Neck Fractures

Background

Subcapital femoral neck is known to cause many complications, such as avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head or nonunion, compared with other femoral neck fractures. The purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence of AVN and fixation failures in patients treated with internal fixation using cannulated screws for the subcapital femoral neck fractures.

Methods

This study targeted a total of 84 cases of subcapital femoral neck fractures that underwent internal fixation using cannulated screws. The average follow-up time after surgery was 36.8 months (range, 24 to 148 months).

Results

Nine hips (10.7%) showing AVN of the femoral head and 6 hips (7.1%) showing fixation failures were observed. The factors affecting the incidence of AVN of the femoral head after sustaining fractures correlated well with fracture types in the Garden classification (p = 0.030). The factors affecting fixation failure were the degree of reduction (p = 0.001) measured by the Garden alignment index and firm fixation (p = 0.009) assessed using the technique of 3-point fixation through the inferomedial cortical bone of the femoral neck.

Conclusions

The complication rates for subcapital femoral neck fractures were lower than those previously reported; hence, internal fixation could be a primary treatment option for these fractures.

[Joint-preserving treatment of medial femoral neck fractures with an angular stable implant]

OBJECTIVE

Operative stabilization is recommended even for non-displaced or only slightly displaced femoral neck fractures. In addition to the known osteosynthetic procedures, an angular stabile implant system (Targon® FN) has been established since 2006 for treatment of such fractures.

INDICATIONS

Displaced femoral neck fractures (Garden III and IV) and non-displaced fractures (Garden I and II).

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fractures close to the hip joint, which are not classified as typical medial femoral neck fractures and patients with advanced osteoarthritis of the hip who would profit from an endoprosthetic procedure.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

The operative procedure is shown after fracture reposition and central positioning of the guide wire as a standard course.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Early postoperative mobilization under guidance of a physiotherapist. Initially, partial weight bearing only in selected cases with severe displacement.

RESULTS

In our patients collective the Targon® FN has been implanted in over 100 cases. Revision indications and secondary endoprosthesis were documented in only 9 % of the cases. This angular stable screw osteosynthesis system is a safe procedure to achieve patient mobility if the indications are adhered to and implantation is correctly carried out.

Serum albumin and fixation failure with cannulated hip screws in undisplaced intracapsular femoral neck fracture

Introduction Internal fixation of undisplaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures with cannulated hip screws is a widely accepted surgical technique, despite reported failure rates of 12%-19%. This study determined whether preoperative serum albumin levels are linked to fixation failure. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 251 consecutive undisplaced intracapsular femoral neck fracture patients treated with cannulated hip screws in a district general hospital. Preoperative albumin levels were measured, and the fixation technique, classification and posterior tilt on radiography assessed. Fixation failure was defined as a screw cut, avascular necrosis (AVN) or non-union. Results Of the patients, 185 were female and 66 male. The mean age was 77 years (range 60-101 years). Thirty seven (15%) patients had fixation failure: 10 (4%) due to AVN; 12 (5%) due to non-union; and 15 (6%) due to fixation collapse. Low serum albumin levels were significantly associated with failure (p=0.01), whereas gender (p=0.56), operated side (p=0.62), age (p=0.34) and screw configuration (p=0.42) were not. A posterior tilt angle greater than 20° on lateral radiography significantly predicted failure (p=0.002). Conclusions Preoperative serum albumin is an independent predictor of cannulated hip screw fixation failure in undisplaced femoral neck fractures. Nutritional status should therefore be considered when deciding between surgical fixation and arthroplasty to avoid the possibility of revision surgery, along with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality.

What is the impact of age on reoperation rates for femoral neck fractures treated with internal fixation and hemiarthroplasty? A comparison of hip fracture outcomes in the very elderly population

METHODS

A retrospective comparative study was performed at a level 1 trauma center at which electronic medical records and digital radiographs were reviewed for 949 femoral neck fractures. For the primary outcome of reoperation based on age, Kaplan-Meier models were built and analysis applied.

RESULTS

A total of 334 fractures were nondisplaced treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP), and 615 were displaced managed with hemiarthroplasty (HA). Overall, 98 patients (10.33%) required reoperation. Increasing reoperation rates for CRPP was seen with each subsequent age group. The opposite was seen with HA in which increasing age groups showed lower reoperation rates.

Osteosynthesis of ununited femoral neck fracture by internal fixation combined with iliac crest bone chips and muscle pedicle bone grafting

BACKGROUND

Ununited femoral neck fracture is seen commonly in developing countries due to delayed presentation or failure of primary internal fixation. Such fractures, commonly present with partial or total absorption of femoral neck, osteonecrosis of femoral head in 8-30% cases with upward migration of trochanter posing problem for osteosynthesis, especially in younger individuals. Several techniques for treatment of such conditions are described like osteotomies or nonvascularied cortical or cancellous bone grafting provided varying degrees of success in terms of fracture union but unsatisfactory long term results occurred due to varying incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) of femoral head. Moreover, in presence of AVN of femoral head neither free fibular graft nor cancellous bone graft is satisfactory. The vascularied bone grafting by deep circumflex iliac artery based on iliac crest bone grafting, free vascularied fibular grafting and muscle pedicle periosteal grafting showed high incidence of success rate. Osteosynthesis is the preferred treatment of choice in ununited femoral neck fracture in younger individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of the 293 patients operated during the period from June 1977 to June 2009, 42 were lost to followup. Seven patients with gluteus medius muscle pedicle bone grafting (MPBG) were excluded. Thus, out of 244 patients, 208 (85.3%) untreated nonunion and 36 (14.7%) following failure of primary internal fixation were available for studies. Time interval between the date of injury and operation in untreated nonunion cases was mean 6.5 months and in failed internal fixation cases was mean 11.2 months. Ages of the patients varied from 16 to 55 years. Seventy patients had partial and 174 had subtotal absorption of the femoral neck. Evidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) femoral head was found histologically in 135 (54.3%) and radiologically in 48 (19.7%) patients. The patients were operated by open reduction of fracture, cannulated hip screw fixation, iliac crest bone chips and quadratus femoris MPBG.

RESULTS

The mean followup is 12.5 years (range 3-35). The union of fractures occurred in 202 (82.8%), delayed union in 18 (7.3%), and established nonunion in 24 (9.8%) patients. Full weight bearing was permitted at 16-22 weeks after union of fractures. Mean Harris hip score at the longest followup was 85.5. Among the complications, superficial wound infection occurred in 20 (8.2%), deep infection in seven (2.9%), and coxa vara in 39 (16%) patients. Preoperative radiodensity of femoral head disappeared mostly after the union of fracture whereas fresh radiodensity of femoral head appeared in 20 (8%) patients; nine (45%) of them developed segmental collapse.

CONCLUSION

Ununited femoral neck fractureis characterized by absorption of femoral neck, posterior cortical defect, smoothening and overriding of fracture surfaces with intervening fibrous tissues associated with or without AVN of femoral head. The above method of osteosynthesis rectified the above pathology and provided satisfactory results with union of fractures in 90.1% patients at long term followup.

Bipolar Hemarthroplasty Using Cementless Conical Stem for Treatment of Dorr Type B and C Femoral Neck Fracture

PURPOSE

The current study aims to evaluate the clinical and the radiological outcome of bipolar hemiarthroplasty using cementless cone stem to treat osteoporotic femoral neck fracture and compare the results according to the proximal femur geometry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-five hips (75 patients) that underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty with cementless cone stem between September 2006 and December 2011 were analyzed. The minimum follow-up period was 3 years. Thirty-three hips were classified as type B and 41 as type C. The clinical outcome was assessed using Harris hip score and the walking ability score. Radiographic evaluation was performed to evaluate the stability of the prosthesis.

RESULTS

At the most recent follow up, the mean Harris hip score was 86 (range, 70-92) and 65% recovered to preoperative ambulatory status. In the radiographic exam, stable stem fixation was achieved in all cases. For the complications, eight hips developed deep vein thrombosis while three hips showed heterotopic ossification. Dislocation and delayed deep infection occurred in one hip resepectively. There were no significance differences in Harris hip score and walking ability score when the type B group was compare with the type C.

CONCLUSION

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty with cementless cone stem showed an excellent early outcome both clinically and radiographically regardless of the shape of the proximal femur. We believe this prosthesis can provide early stability to the Dorr type B and C femur and is an effective treatment for treating osteoporotic femoral neck fracture.