Occult Intertrochanteric Extension in Isolated Greater Trochanteric Fracture on Plain Radiographs

BestBET: Is cross sectional imaging of the hip necessary in patients with isolated greater trochanter fracture?

A Best Evidence Topic review was undertaken to clarify whether patients with apparently isolated greater trochanter fracture on plain X-ray require urgent cross sectional imaging. A literature search was performed to establish what proportion of these patients have clinically important intertrochanteric extension. 11 papers were included showing intertrochanteric extension in 54% using magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography and surgical management was in 37% but with marked disparity in the data. Further work is needed to completely answer this question, and to find the most clinically useful predictors of fracture completion and displacement.

The incidence and management of Isolated Greater Trochanteric Fractures - A systematic review of 166 cases

BACKGROUND

Isolated fractures of the greater trochanter are unusual injuries with a wide spectrum of presentation, investigations and management strategies.

AIMS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence and treatment protocols used in the management of Isolated Greater Trochanteric Fractures (IGTF).

METHODS

A systematic literature review of the PubMed and Central Register of Controlled Trials (Cochrane) databases by using the search term 'greater trochanter fracture and hip fracture' was conducted for Randomised Controlled Trials (RCT's), including prospective and retrospective non-experimental studies.

RESULTS

The search yielded 15 studies meeting our inclusion criteria encompassing 166 patients with Isolated Greater Trochanteric Fractures (IGTF). Most of the reports were observational studies due to paucity of coverage on this topic in literature. Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) were the common modalities used to diagnose these injuries. Most of the patients were managed with non-operative methods.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review analyses the consensus of treatment of IGTF based on evidence-based practice. When the IGTF is identified, the majority of studies advocate conservative management to surgery for such cases. Furthermore, large cohort studies with clearly documented outcome follow up are required to establish objective treatment guidelines for IGTF.