The best location for proximal locking screw for femur interlocking nailing: A biomechanical study

Background:

Proximal locking screw deformation and screw fracture is a frequently seen problem for femur interlocking nailing that affects fracture healing. We realized that there is lack of literature for the right level for the proximal locking screw. We investigated the difference of locking screw bending resistance between the application of screws on different proximal femoral levels.

Materials and Methods:

We used a total of 80 proximal locking screws for eight groups, 10 screws for each group. Three-point bending tests were performed on four types of screws in two different trochanteric levels (the lesser trochanter and 20 mm proximal). We determined the yield points at three-point bending tests that a permanent deformation started in the locking screws using an axial compression testing machine.

Results:

The mean yield point value of 5 mm threaded locking screws applied 20 mm proximal of lesser trochanter was 1022 ± 49 (range 986–1057) (mean ± standard deviation, 95% confidence interval). On the other hand, the mean yield point value of the same type of locking screws applied on the lesser trochanteric level was 2089 ± 249 (range 1911–2268). Which means 103% increase of screw resistance between two levels (P = 0.000). In all screw groups, on the lesser trochanter line we determined 98–174% higher than the yield point values of the same type of locking screws in comparison with 20 mm proximal to the lesser trochanter (P = 0.000).

Conclusion:

According to our findings, there is twice as much difference in locking screw bending resistance between these two application levels. To avoid proximal locking screw deformation, locking screws should be placed in the level of the lesser trochanter in nailing of 1/3 middle and distal femur fractures.     

Computed tomographic evaluation of the proximal femur: A predictive classification in displaced femoral neck fracture management

Background:

Femoral neck fracture is truly an enigma due to the high incidence of avascular necrosis and nonunion. Different methods have been described to determine the size of the femoral head fragment, as a small head has been said to be associated with poor outcome and nonunion due to inadequate implant purchase in the proximal fragment. These methods were two dimensional and were affected by radiography techniques, therefore did not determine true head size. Computed tomography (CT) is an important option to measure true head size as images can be obtained in three dimensions. Henceforth, we subjected patients to CT scan of hip in cases with displaced fracture neck of femur. The study aims to define the term small head or inadequate size femoral head” objectively for its prognostic significance.

Materials and Methods:

70 cases of displaced femoral neck fractures underwent CT scan preoperatively for proximal femoral geometric measurements of both hips. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan was done in all cases. Patients were treated with either intertrochanteric osteotomy or lag screw osteosynthesis based on the size of the head fragment on plain radiographs.

Results:

The average femoral head fragment volume was 57 cu cm (range 28.3-84.91 cu cm; standard deviation 14 cu cm). Proximal fragment volume of >43 cu cm was termed adequate size (type I) and of ≤43 cu cm as small femoral head (type II). Fractures which united (n = 54) had a relatively large average head size (59 cu cm) when compared to fractures that did not (n = 16), which had a small average head size (49 cu cm) and this difference was statistically significant. In type I fractures union rate was comparable in both osteotomy and lag screw groups (P > 0.05). Lag screw fixation failed invariably, while osteotomy showed good results in type II fractures (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Computed tomography scan of the proximal femur is advisable for measuring true size of head fragment. An objective classification based on the femoral head size (type I and type II) is proposed. Osteosynthesis should be the preferred method of treatment in type I and osteotomy or prosthetic replacement is the method of choice for type II femoral neck fractures.     

Extensively coated revision stems in proximally deficient femur: Early results in 15 patients

Background:

Hip replacement following failed internal fixation (dynamic hip screw for intertrochanteric fractures) or previous hip arthroplasty presents a major surgical challenge. Proximal fitting revision stems do not achieve adequate fixation. Distal fixation with long-stemmed extensively coated cementless implants (like the Solution™ system) affords a suitable solution. We present our early results of 15 patients treated with extensively coated cementless revision stems.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients with severely compromised proximal femora following either failed hip arthroplasty or failed internal fixation (dynamic hip screw fixation for intertrochanteric fractures) were operated by the senior author over a two-year period. Eight patients had aseptic loosening of their femoral stems following cemented hip replacements, with severe thinning of their proximal cortices and impending stress fractures. Seven had secondary hip arthritis following failure of long implants for comminuted intertrochanteric or subtrochanteric femoral fractures. All patients were treated by removal of implant (cemented stems/DHS implants) and insertion of long-stemmed extensively coated cementless revision (‘Solution™ DePuy, Warsaw (IN), US’) stems along with press-fit acetabular component (Duraloc Cup, DePuy, Warsaw (IN), US). All eight hip revisions needed extended trochanteric osteotomies.

Results:

All patients were primarily kept in bed on physiotherapy for six weeks and then gradually progressed to weight-bearing walking over the next six to eight weeks. The Harris Hip Scores and patient satisfaction were used for final evaluation. We achieved good results in the short term studied. In our first three patients (all following failed cemented total hip replacements), we resorted to cerclage wiring to hold osteotomised segments (done to facilitate stem removal). The subsequent 12 proceeded without the need for cerclage wiring. One patient had a intraoperative severe comminuted fracture extending into the supracondylar region while hammering in the stem. Post cerclage wiring, she was put on a long knee brace and her mobilization was delayed to 12 weeks.

Conclusions:

The extensively coated cementless (‘Solution™’) femoral stem provides a reasonable ‘solution’ to the deficient femur in hip revision. The proximal femoral deficiences can be relatively easily bypassed and distal fixation can be achieved with this stem. Extreme care needs to be taken to avoid fractures and penetration of the femoral shaft, which can, however, be managed by cerclage wiring. Principles of a successful outcome include preservation of the functional continuity of the abduction apparatus, care to recognize and prevent distal extension of fracture while inserting the stem (preemptive cerclage wiring) and supervised rehabilitation.     

Treatment of ipsilateral concomitant fractures of proximal extra capsular and distal femur

Objectives

Ipsilateral concomitant fractures of proximal extracapsular and distal femur are rare injuries and pose a great challenge for orthopaedics. In this study, we reviewed and examined the approaches and outcomes of this complex injury.

Methods

From August 2002 to January 2010, seven patients (six males and one female) with a mean age of 39 years (range, 20-48 years) were involved in the study. They had suffered from ipsilateral concomitant fractures of proximal extracapsular and distal femur, with two cases of unstable intertrochanteric fractures, three cases of subtrochanteric fractures and two cases of extracapsular femoral neck fractures. The distal femoral fractures were categorised based on the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthes (AO) classification: 2, A3; 2, C1; 2, C2 and 1, C3, and the proximal femoral fractures were stabilised via nailing, whilst the distal ones via less-invasive stabilisation system-distal femur (LISS-DF) plating in all six patients. In the one with the ‘floating knee’ injury, the subtrochanteric fracture was stabilised by reversed LISS-DF, and the distal one, by retrograde nailing. The healing of each femoral fracture was evaluated radiologically and clinically with follow-up. The functional outcomes were assessed through the Friedman and Wyman system.

Results

The mean follow-up interval was 2 years (range, 1.5-3 years). Six femoral fractures healed uneventfully, whilst the one with the ‘floating knee’ injury developed a delayed union postoperatively due to metal failure in 6 months, and, eventually, a malunion with coxa vara deformity 1.5 years later. The clinical functions at the final follow-up were found to be good in five cases, and fair and poor in one case each.

Conclusion

The nailing of a proximal femoral fracture and an LISS-DF fixation of a distal one could be a reliable and effective approach to handle ipsilateral concomitant fractures of a proximal extracapsular and distal femur.     

A comparative biomechanical study of proximal femoral nail (InterTAN) and proximal femoral nail antirotation for intertrochanteric fractures

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical strength of the cephalomedullary nail InterTAN in cases of intertrochanteric fractures with the commonly used PFNA.

Methods

Sixteen fresh specimens of the proximal femur were used as intertrochanteric fracture models and were fixed using two fixation devices: the new proximal femoral nail (InterTAN) and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA). An intertrochanteric fracture was created in composite bone models. Each specimen was loaded to simulate single leg stance while stiffness, migration (cut out), compressive force across the fracture site, and distal fragment rotation were monitored. The different internal fixation methods were tested by an experimental press analysis.

Results

Results of tests for femoral strength, stiffness, stability, and bearing capacity demonstrated that the biomechanical function of InterTAN was better than that of PFNA (P < 0.05). Compared with the PFNA nail, InterTAN showed increased strength, stiffness, and resistance torque of 30 %, 15 %, and 27 %, respectively.

Conclusion

Comparison of the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures with InterTAN and PFNA internal fixation showed that the InterTAN yielded improvement relative to the PFNA. InterTAN has a firmer and biomechanically superior performance and is therefore an ideal internal fixation method for treating intertrochanteric fractures. Additional research in osteopenic bone is necessary to comprehensively characterize the effects of the design enhancements of these two implants.     

Reverse distal femoral locking compression plate a salvage option in nonunion of proximal femoral fractures

Background:When primary fixation of proximal femoral fractures with implants fails, revision osteosynthesis may be challenging. Tracts of previous implants and remaining insufficient bone stock in the proximal femur pose unique problems for the treatment. Intramedullary implants like proximal femoral nail (PFN) or surface implants like Dynamic Condylar Screw (DCS) are few of the described implants for revision surgery. There is no evidence in the literature to choose one implant over the other. We used the reverse distal femur locking compression plate (LCP) of the contralateral side in such cases undergoing revision surgery. This implant has multiple options of fixation in proximal femur and its curvature along the length matches the anterior bow of the femur. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this implant in salvage situations.Results:All fractures exhibited union without any complications. Union was assessed clinically and radiologically. One case of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fracture required bone grafting at the second stage for delayed union of the femoral shaft fracture.Conclusions:Reverse distal femoral LCP of the contralateral side can be used as a salvage option for failed fixation of proximal femoral fractures exhibiting nonunion.     

Expandable self-locking nail in the management of closed diaphyseal fractures of femur and tibia

Background:

Intramedullary fixation is the treatment of choice for closed diaphyseal fractures of femur and tibia. The axial and rotational stability of conventional interlocking nails depends primarily on locking screws. This method uses increased operating time and increased radiation exposure. An intramedullary implant that can minimize these disadvantages is obviously better. Expandable intramedullary nail does not rely on interlocking screws and achieves axial and rotational stability on hydraulic expansion of the nail. We analyzed 32 simple fractures of shaft of femur and tibia treated by self-locking expandable nail.

Materials and Methods:

Intramedullary fixation was done by using self-locking, expandable nail in 32 patients of closed diaphyseal fractures of tibia (n = 10) and femur (n = 22). The various modes of injury were road traffic accidents (n = 21), fall from height (n = 8), simple fall (n = 2), and pathological fracture (n = 1). Among femoral diaphyseal fractures 16 were males and six females, average age being 33 yrs (range, 18- 62 yrs). Seventeen patients had AO type A (A1 (n = 3), A2 (n = 4), A3 (n = 10)) and 5 patients had AO type B (B1 (n = 2), B2 (n = 2), B3 (n = 1)) fractures. Eight patients having tibial diaphyseal fractures were males and two were females; average age was 29.2 (range, 18- 55 yrs). Seven were AO type A (A1 (n = 2), A2 (n = 3), A3 (n = 2)) and three were AO type B (B1 (n = 1), B2 (n = 1), and B3 (n = 1)). We performed closed (n = 27) or open reduction (n = 5) and internal fixation with expandable nail to stabilize these fractures. The total radiation exposure during surgery was less as no locking screws were required. Early mobilisation and weight-bearing was started depending on fracture personality and evidences of healing. Absence of localised tenderness and pain on walking was considered clinical criteria for union, radiographic criteria of union being continuity in at least in three cortices in both AP and lateral views. Patients were followed for at least one year.

Results:

The average operative time was 90 min (range, 55-125 min) for femoral fractures and 53 min (range, 25-115 min) for tibial fractures. Radiation exposure was minimum, average being 84 seconds (range, 54-132) for femoral fractures and 54 seconds (range, 36-78) for tibial fractures. All fractures healed, but few had complications, such as infection (one case with tibial fracture) bent femoral nail with malunion (n = 1), and delayed union (n = 3; 2 cases in femur and 1 case in tibia). Mean time of union was 5.1 months (range, 4-10½ months) for femoral fractures and 4.8 months (range, 3-9 months) for tibial fractures.

Conclusion:

We found the nail very easy to use with effective fixation in AO type A and B fractures in our setting. Less surgical time is required with minimum complications. The main advantage of the expandable nail is that if affords. satisfactory axial, rotatory, and bending stability with decreased radiation exposure to operating staff and the patient.     

Bilateral intertrochanteric and femoral diaphyseal fractures with unilateral proximal tibial fracture: A case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Bilateral intertrochanteric femur fractures are relatively rare injuries. This study aims to present a case of a patient with simultaneous bilateral intertrochanteric femur fractures and femoral diaphyseal fractures and proximal tibial fracture with his twelve years follow-up.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 44-year-old man presented to emergency department after a motor vehicle accident. Bilateral intertrochanteric femur fractures (OTA classification – 31A.1.2) and bilateral femoral diaphyseal fractures (OTA classification – 32A.2) and nondisplaced right proximal tibial fracture (OTA classification – 41B.1) were determined in radiographs. Following closed reduction, fractures were fixed with intramedullary nails bilaterally. Proximal tibial fracture was fixed with cannulated screws following open reduction. At twelfth year follow-up he was able to do his daily activities with minimal limitation.

DISCUSSION

High energy traumas, stress fractures, systemic disorders (osteomalacia, chronic renal failure), steroid treatments, seizures and electric injuries are possible causes for bilateral hip factures. However bilateral femoral diaphyseal fractures are mostly due to high energy traumas. Long-term biphosphonate use may also cause bilateral fractures. Single-stage surgery should be performed in order to avoid secondary damages of surgical interventions. All fractures of our patient were fixed in a single session. This prevented further deterioration of patient''s status and made rehabilitation easy.

CONCLUSION

Careful evaluation of all systems should be performed in multi-trauma patients to find out concomitant injuries. Single staged surgical treatment may decrease morbidities.     

Results of proximal femur nail antirotation for low velocity trochanteric fractures in elderly

Background:

The proximal femur nail antirotation (PFNA) is the recent addition to the growing list of intramedullary implants for trochanteric fracture fixation. The initial results in biomechanical and clinical studies have shown promise. We report our results of low velocity trochanteric fractures internally fixed by proximal femur nail antirotation.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study was conducted to assess the results of 122 elderly patients with low velocity trochanteric fractures [39 – stable (AO; 31-A1) and 83 – unstable (AO; 31-A2 and A3)] treated with PFNA from December 2008 to April 2010. Followup functional and radiological assessments were done. Results obtained were compared between stable and unstable fracture patterns using statistical tools.

Results:

The mean followup was 21 months (12–28 months). 11 patients were lost in followup. Union was achieved in all but one patient. Varus collapse was seen in 14 patients and helical blade cut out in one patient. Stable and satisfactorily reduced fractures had a significantly better radiological outcome. Functional outcome measures were similar across fracture patterns. 65% of the patients returned to their preinjury status. The overall complication rate was also significantly higher in unstable fractures.

Conclusion:

Good results with relatively low complication rates can be achieved by PFNA in trochanteric fractures in the elderly. Attention to implant positioning, fracture reduction and a good learning curve is mandatory for successful outcomes.     

Effectiveness of distally slotted proximal femoral nails on prevention of femur fractures during and after intertrochanteric femur fracture surgery

IntroductionIntra- and post-operative femoral shaft fractures related with nailing remain of concern. Although manufacturers have sought to solve the problem by providing distally slotted nails, it is not clear that these implants reduce fractures.We compare two distally slotted proximal femoral nails [trochanteric nail (TRON) and proximal femur intramedullary nail (PROFIN)].Patients and MethodsThe medical records of 195 hips treated with TRONs (distally slotted in four places in the sagittal and coronal planes) and 583 hips treated with PROFINs (distally slotted in two places in the coronal plane) in two institutes were retrospectively evaluated. The inclusion criteria were follow-up for at least 6 months; pertrochanteric fractures and age over 55 years.ResultsIn total, 161 hips in the TRON group and 512 hips in the PROFIN group were included. The mean follow-up time was 28.5 (range: 6–84) months in whole group. The demographic characteristics of the groups were similar. Only 2 intraoperative shaft and 3 proximal lateral cortex fracture was detected in PROFIN group, there wasn’t any postoperative fracture. Four proximal lateral cortex and 2 femur shaft fractures were detected in TRON group (one during operation and one at postoperative 8th month after a fall at pedestrian way).ConclusionsDistal cephalomedullary nail slotting prevented intra- and post-operative femoral fractures. A distal slot 50 mm in length may increase nail elasticity and reduce nail tip stress to a greater extent than a 30-mm slot. Distal slotting in both the sagittal and coronal planes afforded no advantage compared to coronal slotting only.Level of evidenceLevel III retrospective study     

Segmental neck of femur fractures: A unique case report of an ipsilateral subcapital,greater trochanteric and intertrochanteric fracture and proposed management algorithm

INTRODUCTION

Neck of femur fractures are now increasingly common in an ageing population. The management is well known and has been described in great detail. Concomitant ipsilateral segmental fractures of the neck of femur (SFNOF) however are rare and their investigation and management is poorly described.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present the surgical management of a unique and complex case of an ipsilateral subcapital, greater trochanteric and intertrochanteric fracture sustained in an 87-year-old female following a low trauma injury. This fracture configuration has not been described in the literature to date, neither has our method of reconstruction for this fracture, namely hemiarthorplasty, trochanteric stabilising plate and cerclage wires.

DISCUSSION

15 cases from 1989 to 2011 managed by 8 different fixation devices and followed up for an average of 17 months (2–58 months). There was an initial mortality rate of 13% (n = 2). All associated with low energy trauma occurred in female (n = 8), and most with high energy trauma occurred in males (83%; n = 5). The diagnosis was delayed or missed in 20% of cases, and the most common pattern was a concomitant undisplaced subcapital and intertrochanteric fracture (37.5%, n = 6). The overall risk of avascular necrosis was 20%, with a greater risk in patients greater than 65 years of age (33%).

CONCLUSION

Ipsilateral SFNOF are rare injuries with a bimodal distribution, and carry a greater risk of AVN. We advise that all SFNOF should have pre-operative CT planning and propose an algorithm to treat these patients with a standardised surgical approach.     

Fibrous dysplasia of the proximal femur: surgical management options and outcomes

Purpose

The management of proximal femoral deformity in fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. The purpose of this study was to analyze the various presentations of FD of proximal femur and the results of the various treatment modalities for the same.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 23 patients (24 femora) with FD who underwent surgery for the proximal femur. The study sample included 14 males, nine females. Ten patients had a monostotic disease, eight patients had polyostotic disease, and five patients had McCune-Albright syndrome.

Results

Group 1: shepherd crook deformity—included five patients who underwent femoral neck osteotomy. Four patients had intramedullary (IM) nailing with neck cross-pinning and all patients showed union. One patient was stabilized with external fixation, which failed. Group 2: nine patients (ten femora) presented with frank pathological fracture. Nine underwent fixation with IM nailing, one with locking plate and screws. Three patients had to undergo more than one procedure and all fractures showed good union. Group 3: nine patients who presented with bone cyst and pain. All patients underwent biopsy; four of them had curettage with bone graft.

Conclusion

Shepherd crook deformity can be treated by a well-planned osteotomy and fixation with intramedullary implants with neck cross-pinning. Frank pathological fractures fixation with an intramedullary nail has excellent results even if not accompanied by resolution of the fibrodysplastic lesion. More than one procedure may be required. External fixation is not an optimal choice for fixation of femoral osteotomies in FD.     

Comparison of cutout resistance of dynamic condylar screw and proximal femoral nail in reverse oblique trochanteric fractures: A biomechanical study

Background:

Reverse oblique trochanteric fracture of femur is a distinct fracture pattern. 95° Dynamic condylar screw (DCS) and proximal femoral nail (PFN) are currently the most commonly used implants for its fixation. This study aims to biomechanically compare the cutout resistance as well as modes of failure of DCS and PFN in reverse oblique trochanteric fractures.

Materials and Methods:

Sixteen freshly harvested cadaveric proximal femoral specimens were randomly assigned to three mean bone mineral density matched groups, eight of which were implanted with 95° DCS and the other eight with PFN. The constructs were made unstable to resemble a reverse oblique trochanteric fracture by removing a standard size posteromedial wedge. These constructs were subjected to computer controlled cyclic compressive loading with 200 kg at a frequency of 1 cycle/second (1 Hz) and end points of both the groups were analyzed.

Results:

The bending moment of the PFN group was approximately 50% less than that of the DCS group (P<0.0001). The PFN group resisted more number of cycles than the DCS group (P=0.03) and showed lesser number of component failures as compared with the DCS group (P=0.003).

Conclusions:

The PFN is biomechanically superior to DCS for the fixation of reverse oblique trochanteric fractures of femur.     

Incidence and management of hip dislocation in tumour patients with a modular prosthesis of the proximal femur

Purpose

Little data is available about the incidence and especially the management of hip dislocation following the implantation of modular tumor prostheses of the proximal femur. In this retrospective single-centre study we assessed the incidence of hip dislocation following implantation of a proximal femoral modular prosthesis as well as the success of the subsequent surgical or non-surgical treatment in tumor patients.

Methods

Between 1982 and 2008, 166 tumor patients received a modular prosthesis of the proximal femur at our institution. The average age at the time of surgery was 50 ± 20 years (range, six to 84 years). An additional pelvic reconstruction was done in 14 patients. An artificial band for soft tissue reconstruction of the hip was used in 19 patients. The average time of follow-up was 46 ± 64 months (range, one to 277 months).

Results

The overall dislocation rate after proximal femoral replacement was 13 % after a mean time of seven ± eight months (range, 0.3–33 months) after surgery. Between 1982 and 1986 the dislocation rate was 33 % and declined to 9 % in subsequent years (1987–2008). Patients who had received an additional pelvic reconstruction had a three fold higher dislocation rate (p <0.05). Patients with closed reduction had a 58 % (eight of 12) re-dislocation rate compared to 11 % (one of nine) for open reduction (p = 0.0357).

Conclusions

Dislocation of a modular prosthesis of the proximal femur is a common complication, especially in cases with additional pelvic resection with extensive bone and soft-tissue defects. Open surgical management may be more effective in preventing re-dislocation than closed reduction and bracing alone.     

Outcome and incidence of periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fractures in TKA

Background:

Periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fractures following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are infrequent, but is a devastating complication. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and outcomes of periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fractures following TKA using nonoperative as well as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) techniques.

Materials and Methods:

Between January 2004 and December 2010, we followed 3,920 operated patients of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and identified 23 patients with periprosthetic supracondylar fractures. A retrospective analysis of the records of these patients was conducted. Details regarding pre fracture status, treatment offered and the present status were also recorded and analyzed. Time from index arthroplasty to periprosthetic fracture ranged from five days to six years. There were 17 women and 6 men and the average age was 68.26 years (range 52-83 years). Of the 23 patients, 20 patients were treated by operative method, whereas only three patients with relatively undisplaced fractures were treated nonoperatively.

Results:

The total incidence of periprosthetic fractures in operated cases of TKA was 0.58%. Three patients had infection after surgery. As per radiological assessment, two of three conservatively treated cases had malunion, whereas among 20 cases treated operatively, 16 had primary union with one malunion. Two patients had union after bone grafting, whereas two had nonunion. The average reduction in the knee score after fracture was 20.53%. Twenty one patients were able to achieve limited but independent activity.

Conclusions:

Desirable results for periprosthetic fractures can be obtained if proper and timely intervention is done, taking into account the other comorbid conditions. However, short duration of followup and small number of patients were major limiting factors in this study.     

Intramedullary nails for pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures in older, heavier children: early results

Purpose

A common treatment for pediatric femur fractures is intramedullary nail (IMN) insertion. Elastic stable intramedullary nails (ESINs) are often used for these procedures in heavier patients, but the potential for complications and malunion is greater. We describe here a rigid IMN specifically designed for adolescents, the adolescent lateral entry femoral nail (ALFN). The purpose of this study was to compare the recovery and complications for patients treated with ESINs to those treated with the ALFN.

Methods

Our study design was a retrospective cohort study. We performed a review of medical records of 22 children ages 10–17 requiring surgical fixation of a femur fracture for a 2½-year period. Patients selected for the study had traumatic diaphyseal femur fractures and were treated with ESINs without end-caps or ALFNs. Our analyses evaluated injury, surgical, and outcome information for all patients.

Results

Twenty-two patients were eligible for inclusion and were divided into two groups according to their treatment: the ESIN group with 7 patients and the ALFN group with 15 patients. We then performed a comparison of complications and recovery for these patients. The mean time to full weight-bearing was significantly less for the ALFN group (4.1 weeks; SD, 2.2), than the ESIN group (9.4 weeks; SD 3.9). There was no statistical difference in the incidence of major or minor complications.

Conclusions

Older, heavier pediatric patients treated for femur fracture with ALFNs had a shorter recovery time than similar patients treated with ESINs. However, the outcomes for both groups were satisfactory.     

采用长解剖型锁定钢板插入技术内固定治疗同侧股骨干骺端及骨干骨折21例

目的探讨采用长干骺端解剖型锁定钢板插入技术内固定治疗同侧股骨干骺端及骨干骨折的特点及疗效。方法自2007—06--2012—06采用长干骺端解剖型锁定钢板内固定治疗21例同侧股骨干骺端及骨干骨折。其中股骨近端合并股骨干骨折14例,股骨远端合并股骨干骨折7例。术中根据骨折部位选择干骺端切口。在股骨干骺端切口放置长干骺端解剖型锁定钢板,固定好干骺端骨折后,再作有限切口复位股骨干骨折。结果本组均获得随访1～3年,平均1．7年。股骨近端合并股骨干骨折骨愈合时间平均（27．21±7．58）周,股骨远端合并股骨干骨折愈合时间平均（24．71±7．64）周,均无钢板、螺钉断裂。1例开放性股骨远端合并股骨干骨折因感染延迟愈合,出现膝关节强直畸形。14例髋关节功能根据Majeed功能评分标准评定：优9例,平均（89．78±2．73）分;良3例,平均（79．00±4．36）分;可2例,平均（63．00±1．41）分。7例膝关节功能按Kolmert标准评定：优4例,良2例,可1例。结论采用较长的解剖型锁定钢板作为内固定材料手术治疗同侧股骨干骺端及骨干骨折是较好的选择。其特点有：①用1种内固定材料固定2个部位骨折,不剥离骨膜,有利于骨折愈合;②锁定螺钉固定后,成为一种角度固定的钢板,集合了钢板内固定和外固定架的优点;③采用有限切口可减少创伤、降低出血量、缩短住院时间。     

Femoral shaft fractures in the elderly--role of prior bisphosphonate therapy

Introduction

There is a recent surge in interest on bisphosphonate related femoral fractures. Most studies have examined subtrochanteric fractures in patients on long-term bisphosphonates. This study evaluates the characteristics of low-impact femoral shaft fractures in elderly patients on long-term alendronate.

Materials and methods

All patients above 60 years old admitted to the National University Hospital for femoral shaft fracture from January 2003 to January 2007 were retrospectively analysed. Of the 55 patients included, 7 had prior alendronate therapy and were examined in detail.

Results

All 7 patients on prior alendronate therapy sustained their fractures by low-impact or atraumatic mechanisms of injury. 5 of these 7 patients exhibited a characteristic fracture pattern of thickened lateral cortices at the proximal fracture fragment (p < 0.05) and all 7 patients had either transverse or short oblique fractures. Notably, none of the 7 patients had bone mineral density scans prior to their fractures. One patient was started on alendronate after a vertebral compression fracture, whilst the other 6 patients were started on alendronate without any clear clinical indication. All 7 patients reported prodromal thigh pain 3 weeks to 2 years prior to the fracture.

Conclusions

Low-impact femoral shaft fractures in elderly patients on long-term alendronate therapy represent a new entity of insufficiency fractures, with characteristic low-impact modes of injury and fracture patterns on radiograph. Prodromal thigh pain is a warning sign for impending fracture in this group of patients and should be evaluated closely. Teriparatide is a possible alternative to alendronate following such a fracture though more long-term clinical studies are required.     

Complications following proximal femoral locking compression plating in unstable proximal femur fractures: medium-term follow-up

Purpose

To assess the outcome in patients treated with proximal femoral locking compression plate (PF-LCP 4.5/5.0, Synthes^©) for unstable inter- and subtrochanteric femoral fractures.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 16 patients with proximal femur fractures (AO: 31A2: n = 5/32.3%; 31-A3: n = 10/62.5%; 32B1: n = 1/6.3%) treated with a PF-LCP at a Level 1 trauma centre between 2011 and 2015 was conducted.

Results

Sixteen patients were available for follow-up with a mean follow-up time of 14 months (range 4–29). Primary outcome included fracture healing, post-operative complications and post-operative ambulatory status. Male to female ratio was 1:1. Mean age was 61 ± 17 years. Union was achieved in a mean of 13.5 ± 3 weeks (range 12–20 weeks). Five patients (31.3%) had implant-associated complications like non-union, malrotation, late implant-associated infection, distal screw fractures and post-traumatic impingement of the hip. Consequently, four patients (25%) had to undergo revision surgery. There was no reported case of secondary varus collapse or cut-out.

Conclusions

Complications occurred in 31.3% (n = 5) in medium-term follow-up after PF-LCP in proximal unstable inter- and subtrochanteric femur fractures. These findings are supported by results of other groups. However, further studies to evaluate risk factors associated with failure of this implant are required.