Common complications in hip fracture surgery: Tips/tricks and solutions to avoid them

Mechanical Complications of Proximal Femur Fractures Treated with Intramedullary Nailing: A Retrospective Study

Background and Objectives: This retrospective cohort study analyzes mechanical complications in hip fracture surgery using the Trochanteric Fixation Nail-Advanced (TFNA) implant. It investigates the correlation of these complications with demographic, intraoperative, and radiological factors, aiming to identify associated risk factors and suggest improvements in clinical surveillance and treatment strategies. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 253 patients diagnosed with pertrochanteric hip fractures treated between 2017 and 2021, with 126 meeting the criteria for a minimum 6-month follow-up. Data on demographics, American Anesthesia Association Classification (ASA), comorbidities, AO/OTA [AO (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen)/OTA (Orthopedic Trauma Association)] fracture classification, procedural details, and time to failure were collected. Radiographs were evaluated for reduction quality, the tip-apex distance (TAD), progressive varus deviation, and identification of mechanical complications. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: The predominant AO/OTA fracture classification was 31A2 in 67 cases (52.7%). Reduction quality was deemed good or acceptable in 123 cases (97.6%). The mean time to failure was 4.5 months (range: 2.2-6). The average TAD was 18 mm (range: 1.2-36), with a mean progressive varus deviation of 2.44° (range: 1.30-4.14). A good or acceptable reduction quality was observed in 97.6% of cases. Mechanical complications occurred in 21.4% of patients, with significant associations found with the lateral cortex fracture, use of a TFNA implant with a 130° angle, open reduction, and absence of prior osteoporosis treatment. Conclusions: The study provides insights into mechanical complications in proximal femur fractures treated with the TFNA nail, emphasizing the need for enhanced clinical and radiographic surveillance, especially in patients without osteoporosis treatment. Our findings support the necessity for further clinical studies comparing these outcomes with other implant designs and underscore the importance of personalized treatment strategies to reduce complication rates.

Effect of operative time in outcomes following surgical fixation of hip fractures: a multivariable regression analysis of 35,710 patients

BACKGROUND

Prolonged operative time is a risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of hip fractures. However, the quantitative nature of such association, including graduated risk levels, has yet to be described. This study outlines the graduated associations between operative time and (1) healthcare utilisation, and (2) 30-day complications after ORIF of hip fractures.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried (January 2016-December 2019) for all patients who underwent ORIF of hip fractures (n = 35,710). Demographics, operative time, fracture type, and comorbidities were recorded. Outcomes included healthcare utilisation (e.g., prolonged length of stay [LOS>2 days], discharge disposition, 30-day readmission, and reoperation), inability to weight-bear (ITWB) on postoperative day-1 (POD-1), and any 30-day complication. Adjusted multivariate regression models evaluated associations between operative time and measured outcomes.

RESULTS

Operative time <40 minutes was associated with lower odds of prolonged LOS (odds ratio [OR] 0.77), non-home discharge (OR 0.85), 30-day readmission (OR 0.85), and reoperation (OR 0.72). Operative time ⩾80 minutes was associated with higher odds of ITWB on POD-1 (OR 1.17). Operative time ⩾200 minutes was associated with higher odds of deep infection (OR 7.5) and wound complications (OR 3.2). The odds of blood transfusions were higher in cases ⩾60 minutes (OR1.3) and 5-fold in cases ⩾200 minutes (OR 5.4). The odds of venous thromboembolic complications were highest in the ⩾200-minute operative time category (OR 2.5). Operative time was not associated with mechanical ventilation, pneumonia, delirium, sepsis, urinary tract infection, or 30-day mortality.

DISCUSSION

Increasing operative time is associated with a progressive increase in the odds of adverse outcomes following hip fracture ORIF. While a direct cause-effect relationship cannot be established, an operative time of <60 minutes could be protective. Perioperative interventions that shorten operative time without compromising fracture reduction or fixation should be considered.

Challenges and Solutions in Postoperative Complications: A Narrative Review in General Surgery

In general surgery, the goal of achieving favorable results following surgical procedures is consistently impeded by the intricate range of postoperative problems. This abstract summarizes a comprehensive narrative study that examines the numerous difficulties associated with postoperative complications and investigates potential remedies. With the progress of surgical practices, the intricacies of complications also increase, requiring a flexible comprehension of the diverse scenarios. This review examines the many factors contributing to postoperative complications, including patient-specific variables and advancing surgical procedures. It also explores the broader consequences of these problems on individual patients and healthcare systems. The economic results, such as extended hospitalizations and increased allocation of resources, highlight the need for specific solutions. This abstract also emphasizes the review's examination of novel methodologies, technology incorporations, and cooperative tactics as potential transformative factors. This abstract provides an overview of the ongoing efforts to change how postoperative complications are understood in general surgery. It highlights the importance of taking preventive measures and adopting a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Conversion Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Era of Bundled Care Payments: Impacts on Costs of Care

BACKGROUND

Conversion hip arthroplasty is defined as a patient who has had prior open or arthroscopic hip surgery with or without retained hardware that is removed and replaced with arthroplasty components. Currently, it is classified under the same diagnosis-related group as primary total hip arthroplasty (THA); however, it frequently requires a higher cost of care.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 228 conversion THA procedures in an orthopaedic specialty hospital was performed. Propensity score matching was used to compare the study group to a cohort of 510 primary THA patients by age, body mass index, sex, and American Society of Anesthesiologists score. These matched groups were compared based on total costs, implants used, operative times, length of stay (LOS), readmissions, and complications.

RESULTS

Conversion THA incurred 25% more mean total costs compared to primary THA (P < .05), longer lengths of surgery (154 versus 122 minutes), and hospital LOS (2.1 versus 1.56 days). A subgroup analysis showed a 57% increased cost for cephalomedullary nail conversion, 34% increased cost for sliding hip screw, 33% for acetabular open reduction and internal fixation conversion, and 10% increased costs in closed reduction and percutaneous pinning conversions (all P < .05). There were 5 intraoperative complications in the conversion group versus none in the primary THA group (P < .01), with no statistically significant difference in readmissions.

CONCLUSION

Conversion THA is significantly more costly than primary THA and has longer surgical times and greater LOS. Specifically, conversion THA with retained implants had the greatest impact on cost.

Impact of Anterior Malposition and Bone Cement Augmentation on the Fixation Strength of Cephalic Intramedullary Nail Head Elements

Background and Objectives: Intramedullary nailing of trochanteric fractures can be challenging and sometimes the clinical situation does not allow perfect implant positioning. The aim of this study was (1) to compare in human cadaveric femoral heads the biomechanical competence of two recently launched cephalic implants inserted in either an ideal (centre-centre) or less-ideal anterior off-centre position, and (2) to investigate the effect of bone cement augmentation on their fixation strength in the less-ideal position. Materials and Methods: Fourty-two paired human cadaveric femoral heads were assigned for pairwise implantation using either a TFNA helical blade or a TFNA screw as head element, implanted in either centre-centre or 7 mm anterior off-centre position. Next, seven paired specimens implanted in the off-centre position were augmented with bone cement. As a result, six study groups were created as follows: group 1 with a centre-centre positioned helical blade, paired with group 2 featuring a centre-centre screw, group 3 with an off-centre positioned helical blade, paired with group 4 featuring an off-centre screw, and group 5 with an off-centre positioned augmented helical blade, paired with group 6 featuring an off-centre augmented screw. All specimens were tested until failure under progressively increasing cyclic loading. Results: Stiffness was not significantly different among the study groups (p = 0.388). Varus deformation was significantly higher in group 4 versus group 6 (p = 0.026). Femoral head rotation was significantly higher in group 4 versus group 3 (p = 0.034), significantly lower in group 2 versus group 4 (p = 0.005), and significantly higher in group 4 versus group 6 (p = 0.007). Cycles to clinically relevant failure were 14,919 ± 4763 in group 1, 10,824 ± 5396 in group 2, 10,900 ± 3285 in group 3, 1382 ± 2701 in group 4, 25,811 ± 19,107 in group 5 and 17,817 ± 11,924 in group 6. Significantly higher number of cycles to failure were indicated for group 1 versus group 2 (p = 0.021), group 3 versus group 4 (p = 0.007), and in group 6 versus group 4 (p = 0.010). Conclusions: From a biomechanical perspective, proper centre-centre implant positioning in the femoral head is of utmost importance. In cases when this is not achievable in a clinical setting, a helical blade is more forgiving in the less ideal (anterior) malposition when compared to a screw, the latter revealing unacceptable low resistance to femoral head rotation and early failure. Cement augmentation of both off-centre implanted helical blade and screw head elements increases their resistance against failure; however, this effect might be redundant for helical blades and is highly unpredictable for screws.

External Locking Plate Fixation for Femoral Subtrochanteric Fractures

Introduction

Internal fixation is the treatment of choice for subtrochanteric fractures in most conditions. However, it may be an unsuitable procedure for patients with poor health status, osteomyelitis, and surrounding soft tissue compromise. This study aimed to ascertain the viability and reliability of using external locking plate fixation for these difficult cases.

Methods

Eleven patients with femoral subtrochanteric fractures who received external locking plate fixation in our institute from January 2014 to December 2019 were enrolled in our study. The bone union time, wound complication, alignment, and necessity for narcotic agents were evaluated.

Results

The average length of follow-up was 17.5 months (range, 14-26 months). The mean time for bone union was 17.7 weeks (range, 15-21 weeks). The indications included poor health condition, soft tissue compromise, and post-operative osteomyelitis. Pin tract infection was noted in two patients who were treated successfully with oral antibiotics administration and removal of the involved screws. Osseous union with varus deformity <10° was achieved in all patients except one. Three patients required an orally administered pain killer at the final visit. The average Harris Hip Score at one year post-operatively was 66.6 (range, 49-80).

Conclusions

Although the current study only involved 11 patients, we believe that our method may serve as a valuable alternative for the treatment of a femoral subtrochanteric fracture in selected cases.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, retrospective case series.

Mechanical Analysis after Proximal Femoral Reinforcement with Polymethylmethacrylate in Alternated Double Holes

Objective  To evaluate, through a biomechanical assay, the maximum load, energy, and displacement necessary for the occurrence of fractures in synthetic models of femurs after the removal of cannulated screws and the performance of a reinforcement technique with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in different combined positions. Methods  In total, 25 synthetic bones were used, and they were divided into 4 groups: the control group (CG), with 10 models without perforation, and the test groups (A, B and C), with 5 models each. The test groups were fixed with cannulated screws using the Asnis technique, and they had the synthesis removed, and two of the holes formed by the reinforcement technique with PMMA were filled. The biomechanical analysis was performed simulating a fall on the large trochanter using a servo-hydraulic machine. Results  All specimens of the CG and of groups A, B and C presented basal-cervical fracture of the femoral neck, except for a single model in group B, which presented a longitudinal fracture. An average of 5.4 mL of PMMA were used to reinforce the groups with filling. According to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey multiple comparison test, at the level of 5%, we observed that the CG presented significant differences in relation to groups A and C in the following parameters: maximum load, energy up to the fracture, and displacement. Conclusion  We observed that groups A and C, when compared to the CG, showed significant differences in the observation of displacement, maximum load, and energy until the fracture.

Impact of Bone Cement Augmentation on the Fixation Strength of TFNA Blades and Screws

Background and Objectives: Hip fractures constitute the most debilitating complication of osteoporosis with steadily increasing incidences in the aging population. Their intramedullary nailing can be challenging because of poor anchorage in the osteoporotic femoral head. Cement augmentation of Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) blades demonstrated promising results by enhancing cut-out resistance in proximal femoral fractures. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of augmentation on the fixation strength of TFN-ADVANCED^TM Proximal Femoral Nailing System (TFNA) blades and screws within the femoral head and compare its effect when they are implanted in centre or anteroposterior off-centre position. Materials and Methods: Eight groups were formed out of 96 polyurethane low-density foam specimens simulating isolated femoral heads with poor bone quality. The specimens in each group were implanted with either non-augmented or cement-augmented TFNA blades or screws in centre or anteroposterior off-centre positions, 7 mm anterior or posterior. Mechanical testing was performed under progressively increasing cyclic loading until failure, in setup simulating an unstable pertrochanteric fracture with a lack of posteromedial support and load sharing at the fracture gap. Varus-valgus and head rotation angles were monitored. A varus collapse of 5° or 10° head rotation was defined as a clinically relevant failure. Results: Failure load (N) for specimens with augmented TFNA head elements (screw/blade centre: 3799 ± 326/3228 ± 478; screw/blade off-centre: 2680 ± 182/2591 ± 244) was significantly higher compared with respective non-augmented specimens (screw/blade centre: 1593 ± 120/1489 ± 41; screw/blade off-centre: 515 ± 73/1018 ± 48), p < 0.001. For both non-augmented and augmented specimens failure load in the centre position was significantly higher compared with the respective off-centre positions, regardless of the head element type, p < 0.001. Augmented off-centre TFNA head elements had significantly higher failure load compared with non-augmented centrally placed implants, p < 0.001. Conclusions: Cement augmentation clearly enhances the fixation stability of TFNA blades and screws. Non-augmented blades outperformed screws in the anteroposterior off-centre position. Positioning of TFNA blades in the femoral head is more forgiving than TFNA screws in terms of failure load.

Medical and economic consequences of perioperative complications in older hip fracture patients

Patients suffering from complications during inpatient treatment after hip fracture surgery are associated with a worse mid-term outcome. While surgically treatable complications only delay the healing process, internal complications seem to worsen the outcome in the long run. All complications come with significant increased costs during the hospital stay.

PURPOSE

Due to the demographic changes, the importance of hip fractures is still increasing nowadays. Not only surgical but also medical complications represent a major challenge in the treatment of those patients. Nevertheless, only few is known about the functional, medical, and economic consequences of complications.

METHODS

A total of 402 hip fracture patients ≥ 60 years were observed prospectively at a German university hospital. Complications were assessed during the inpatient stay and classified by Clavien and Dindo. Afterwards their influence on acute care costs was examined as well as their influence on the mortality, health-related quality of life (HRQL) (EQ5D), functional capacities (Barthel index), and mobility (Tinetti score) in the follow-up periods of 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Complications that required surgical revision/treatment (type III) were associated with an increased 6 months' mortality, while type II and IV complications did not influence mortality after 6 and 12 months. Six months after surgery, HRQL, Barthel score, and Tinetti score were reduced in patients suffering from all different types of complications. After 12 months however, HRQL, Barthel score, and Tinetti score following type II and IV complications remained reduced, while the scores improved in patients suffering from type III complication. All types of complications led to significantly increased acute care costs.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study emphasize the crucial role of perioperative complications in older patients with hip fractures. Therefore, special attention has to be given to the prevention of those complications, e.g., with orthogeriatric treatment models, which have been shown to be effective in the reduction of complications.

Hip Fractures: Therapy, Timing, and Complication Spectrum

Objective

Investigation of the treatment of femur fractures and the type of femur fracture‐associated complications regarding timing of surgery and length of hospital stay.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 358 hip fractures were evaluated retrospectively from 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2010 at a level I trauma center in Germany. Inclusion criteria was age >18 years and a proximal femur fracture. Both sexes were evaluated. Mean age was 75.5 years, most patients were female (63.7%). Intervention was the operative treatment of proximal femur fracture. Outcome parameters were time until surgery, complications, reoperations, mortality, and length of hospital stay.

Results

Among the proximal femur fractures (n = 358), 46.6% were pertrochanteric, 11.2% subtrochanteric, and 42.2% femoral neck fractures. Operation upon hip fractures was managed regularly within 24 hours of injury (73%; mean for femoral neck: 28.3 hrs.; mean for pertrochanteric fractures: 21.4 hrs.; mean for subtrochanteric fractures: 19.5 hrs.). Delayed treatment, as well as implantation of hip total endoprosthesis (TEP), increased the overall length of hospital stay (15.4 vs 17.6 days; 18.1 vs 15.8 days). Accordingly, surgical procedures performed within 24 hours of injury resulted in a shorter hospital residence. Longest delay of operation was measured for hip fractures (28.3 hrs.).

In 351 patients, secondary injuries were detected in 94 individuals (26%), with fractures being the most common secondary injury (n = 40). We recorded postoperative complications of nonsurgical and surgical origin, and 33.6% of our patient cohort displayed complications. Complications were distributed among 118 patients. There was no significant difference in complications regarding the time of operation, with most nonsurgical and surgical complications appearing within 24 hours after operation (n = 110 vs n = 31). Nonsurgical complications, such as anemia (n = 49) and electrolyte imbalances (n = 30), were observed more frequently than surgical complications (n = 107 vs n = 34); however, these complications were reduced by delay in surgery (82.0% in 6–24 hrs. vs 74.2% in ≥24 hrs.). Anticoagulant therapy and age did not affect postoperative complications. The hospital mortality of patients was 6.2%. Follow‐up was restrained to ambulatory visits in the clinic.

Conclusions

Surgical management of hip fractures performed within 24 hours of injury minimizes hospital stay. We did not detect significant differences in the spectrum or number of complications regarding delay of surgery. Surgical complications mainly occur with rapid primary care, and medical complications can be reduced by more intensive preparation of patient and operation procedures.

Biomechanical Test after Hip Cannulated Screw Removal (in vitro Analysis)

Objective  This study aims to evaluate, through biomechanical tests, the resistance and energy required for proximal femoral fracture in synthetic bones after removing cannulated screws shaped as an inverted triangle, comparing the obtained results to those of a reinforcement technique with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) as bone cement. Methods  Twenty synthetic bones were used: 10 units for the control group (CG), 5 units for the test group without reinforcement (TGW/O), and 5 units for the test group using a reinforcement technique with PMMA (TGW). The biomechanical analysis simulated a fall on the large trochanter using a servo-hydraulic machine. Results  All TGW/O and CG specimens had a basicervical fracture. Three TGW specimens presented a basicervical fracture, and two suffered a fracture near the fixation point of the device (femoral diaphyseal region), with one of them being associated with a femoral neck fracture. A mean PMMA volume of 8.2 mL was used to fill the 3 screw holes in the TGW group. According to the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey multiple comparisons tests at a 5% level, the TGW presented a statistically significant difference when compared with the other groups in all parameters: maximal load ( p  = 0.001) and energy until fracture ( p  = 0.0001). Conclusion  The simple removal of the cannulated screws did not reduce significantly the maximum load and energy for fracture occurrence, but the proximal femoral reinforcement with PMMA significantly increased these parameters, modifying the fracture pattern.

The fake unlocked femoral nail: A configuration to avoid in stable pertrochanteric femur fractures

BACKGROUND

Intramedullary unlocked nailing is a safe and used treatment for stable pertrocantheric fractures. Due to the femoral anterior bow of the shaft or a wrong entry point, the distal tip of the nail can be impinging the anterior cortex. This type of situation can compromise the function of the nail, leading to nonunion of the fracture, and cut-out. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between nail impingement of the anterior cortex of the femur and cut-out and nonunion incidence in patients with pertrochanteric stable fracture treated with an IM nail in an unlocked configuration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study based on medical records and imaging from the archives of our Level I academic medical center was conducted. The study included patients with proximal femoral fractures treated with short cephalomedullary nails between January 2012 and May 2015. The data collected were analyzed to a possible correlation with the healing time and occurrence of nonunion and cut-out.

RESULTS

The study population counted 429 cases. Applying the inclusion criteria the final series was composed of 169 patients: 112 females (66.73%) and 57 males (33.27%), with a mean age of 81.23 years (range: 67-93 years). Distal tip impingement was observed in 22 cases (13.02%). In total 16 (9.47%) postoperative complications were recorded: 8 non-union and 7 cut-outs. Consolidation was registered in 153 cases and the fracture healing time averaged 14.4 ± 3.8 weeks (range, 11-24 weeks). The cortical impingement was correlated with nonunion and cut-out (p < 0.001) Logistic regression analysis revealed jamming sign significantly affected the fracture healing time (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of cut-out and nonunion after cephalomedullary nailing of stable pertrochanteric fractures appear to be correlated to the presence of the cortical impingement. For this reason, the fake unlocked femoral nail with the cortical impingement is a configuration to avoid in stable pertrochanteric femur fractures.

Incidence, risk factors and clinical impact of postoperative delirium following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for hip fractures: an analysis of 7859 patients from the ACS-NSQIP hip fracture procedure targeted database

OBJECTIVE

Delirium is one of the most common acute psychiatric disturbances taking place in patients, particularly elderly, following hip fractures. Using a validated national surgical database, we sought to define the incidence, risk factors and clinical impact associated with the occurrence of delirium following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for hip fracture.

METHODS

The 2016 American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Hip Fracture Targeted Procedure file-was retrieved and merged with the ACS-NSQIP 2016 file. A total of 7859 patients were finally included in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 2177 (27.7%) patients experienced an episode of delirium following the procedure. Adjusted analysis showed an increasing age ≥ 65 years (p < 0.001), partially dependent functional health status prior to surgery (p = 0.001), bleeding disorder (p = 0.012), preoperative dementia (p < 0.001), preoperative delirium (p < 0.001), being bed-ridden postoperatively (p < 0.001), no weight bearing as tolerated on first postoperative day (p < 0.001), an ASA grade > II (p < 0.001), non-emergency case (p = 0.010) and a prolonged length of stay > 3 days (p < 0.001). In addition, Black or African-American ethnicity had a lower odds of developing postoperative delirium (p = 0.020) as compared to Whites. Moreover, postoperative delirium was significantly associated with non-home discharge disposition (p < 0.001), higher odds of 30-day readmissions (p < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study identifies several risk factors associated with the occurrence of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing ORIF for hip fracture. Surgeons can utilize these data to risk stratify and consequently tailor an appropriate preoperative and postoperative care protocol to prevent the occurrence of delirium.

The art of trochanteric fracture reduction

The name of Ender is primarily associated with the Ender nails, which were popular for trochanteric fracture fixation more than thirty years ago. However, Ender's concepts were not limited to the implant. Ender developed a unique classification system for trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures, which provided the theory for closed reduction maneuvers that made the method so successful in his hands. While Ender's nails have become history in the meantime, his principles of fracture reduction can be readily applied on surgery with modern implants such as proximal femoral nails. This article reflects the classification and the principles published by Hans Georg Ender in some print work hardly available nowadays.

The difference in activity of daily living (ADL) and mortality in patients aged over 80 years with femoral neck fracture treated with hemiarthroplasty or osteosynthesis at 2 years of follow-up

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the elderly and outcomes following hip fracture have been the focus of several studies over recent decades. Among all types of fall-related injuries, hip fractures cause the greatest number of deaths, lead to severe health problems and reduce quality of life. Improving the outcome of hip fracture surgery has thus become one of the main areas of interest for orthopaedic surgeons. The aim of this study was to compare the difference in activity of daily living (ADL) and mortality between patients aged over 80 years with hip fracture treated with osteosynthesis versus prosthesis at 2 years of follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data were collected on admission and during in-hospital stay. Information recorded on admission included: age, sex, type and mechanism of fracture, functional and cognitive status, comorbidity, and severity of illness. Prefracture functional status was measured. The follow-up was clinical and radiographical, or was by telephone for patients who were not able to come to the clinic. Patients aged over 80 years who underwent a single surgical procedure treated with intramedullary nail or hemiarthroplasty were included in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 174 patients (45 male and 129 female) were included in the study. The two treatment groups were comparable for all preoperative parameters except for preoperative haemoglobin, which was an average of 1g/dl higher in the patients given hemiarthroplasty compared with those treated with intramedullary nail (t-test: p<0.05). The average observation period was 594.99days; the number of deaths was 62 of 164 contacted patients, and the survival rate at 2 years was 62.2%. There was increased mortality in patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty (Log-rank Mantel-Cox, p: 0,048). The difference in ADL between preoperative and follow-up is not statistically significant between the two groups.

DISCUSSION

In the literature, there are few specific studies that consider these parameters in this population. However, these findings are consistent with the findings from other studies.

CONCLUSION

Patients who received hemiarthroplasty have a higher mortality risk than those treated with intramedullary nail; there are no differences in ADL at follow-up.

Hip fractures in the elderly: The role of cortical bone

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is characterised by poor bone quality arising from alterations to trabecular bone. However, recent studies have also described an important role of alterations to cortical bone in the physiopathology of osteoporosis. Although dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a valid method to assess bone mineral density (BMD), real bone fragility in the presence of comorbidities cannot be evaluated with this method. The aim of this study was to evaluate if cortical thickness could be a good parameter to detect bone fragility in patients with hip fracture, independent of BMD.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 100 patients with hip fragility fractures. Cortical index was calculated on fractured femur (femoral cortical index [FCI]) and, when possible, on proximal humerus (humeral cortical index [HCI]). All patients underwent densitometric evaluation by DXA.

RESULTS

Average value of FCI was 0.43 and of HCI was 0.25. Low values of FCI were found in 21 patients with normal or osteopenic values of BMD, while low values of HCI were found in three patients with non-osteoporotic values of BMD.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Cortical thinning measured from X-Ray of the femur identifies 21% additional fracture cases over that identified by a T-score <-2.5 (57%). FCI could be a useful tool to evaluate bone fragility and to predict fracture risk even in patients with normal and osteopenic BMD.

Prognostic factors for mortality after hip fracture: Operation within 48 hours is mandatory

The aim of this study was to assess whether surgery delay and other variables are associated with an increased mortality rate after surgical treatment of hip fractures in the elderly. Patients treated for a proximal femoral fracture at our Orthopaedic Department between 2005 and 2012 were included in this study. A logistic regression was performed to evaluate the relationship between mortality rate at different follow-up times (30 days, six months and one year) and different patient or treatment variables. A total of 1448 consecutive patients with 1558 proximal femoral fractures (55 bilateral) were enrolled in this study (mean age 80.3 years, 75.8% female). The postoperative mortality rate was 4% at 30 days, 14.1% at six months, and 18.8% at one year after surgery. Logistic regression revealed an increased mortality at all the endpoints in patients affected by more than two co-morbidities (respectively OR_30-day=2.003, OR_6-month=1.8654 and OR_1-year=1.5965). Male sex was associated with an increased six-month (OR=1.7158) and one-year (OR=1.9362) mortality. Patients aged under 74 years had a decreased mortality at all endpoints (OR_30-day=0.0703, OR_6-month=0.2191 and OR1-year=0.2486). In this study, the surgery delay influenced mortality at one-year follow-up: operating within 48hours was associated with a decreased mortality rate (OR=0.7341; p=0.0392). Additionally, the patients who were operated on within 72hours were specifically analysed to understand if the option of 'operating within day 3' was acceptable. In the logistic regression, operating between 48 and 72hours was not reported as a risk factor for mortality, both compared to early surgery (within 48 hours) and to late surgery (after 72hours). This study showed that age, sex and number of co-morbidities influenced both early and late mortality in patients affected by proximal hip fractures. Early surgery influenced late mortality, with a decreased risk in patients operated on within 48hours. The option of operating within day 3 is not a valid alternative.

Is distal locking with short intramedullary nails necessary in stable pertrochanteric fractures? A prospective, multicentre, randomised study

We investigated whether a proximal femoral nail can be implanted without a distal locking screw in AO/OTA 31-A1 and 31-A2 pertrochanteric stable femur fractures. A multicentre, randomised study was conducted in six level-two trauma centres in our area (Puglia, Italy). A total of 333 patients received their allocated intervention (162 in the locking group [LG] and 171 in the unlocking group [UG]) and 266 patients were included in the final analysis at 1year. Our data showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups at 1-year follow-up for ability to walk, SF-36 questionnaire results, residual pain (visual analogue scale [VAS] score) and level of overall satisfaction. There were also no statistically significant differences between groups for mortality and length of hospital stay. Conversely, the UG was associated with shorter operation and fluoroscopy times, shorter surgical incision length, and less blood loss and residual thigh pain. Pertrochanteric stable fractures (31-A1, 31-A2) can be treated successfully with intramedullary nails without distal locking, reducing patient and clinical personnel radiation exposure and sanitary costs (surgery time and screws costs).

Predictive variables of open reduction in intertrochanteric fracture nailing: a report of 210 cases

BACKGROUND

Factors that impede closed reduction in intertrochanteric fractures remain unknown. This study was designed with the aim of establishing radiological variables that can predict an open reduction when nailing those type of fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Observational prospective study carried out between March 2013 and March 2015. Patients of both gender who suffered an intertrochanteric fracture, and who were surgically treated by intramedullary nailing (PFN-A), were included. Patients were evaluated by means of a questionnaire designed in 12 de Octubre Trauma department. Radiological parameters assessed preoperatively, after fracture reduction in the traction table, and after fixation were: calcar, lateral wall and posterior buttress integrity or disruption; lesser trochanter location, varus or valgus deformities, and flexion or extension of the proximal fragment.

RESULTS

Association between open reduction and the following types of fractures was statistically significant (p<0.001): subtypes A2.3, A3.2 and A3.3 of AO classification and subtypes IV and V of Evans classification. There were four radiological parameters associated with the need for open reduction: disruption of lateral wall (p<0.0000), posterior wall fracture (p<0.001), calcar (p<0.004) and malalignment in the axial view (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Open reduction seems to be necessary for complex fracture patterns such as A2.3, A3.2 and A3.3 types of AO/OTA classification, as well as types IV and V of Evans classification. There are four major radiological parameters that can predict the need of approaching the fracture site: posterior buttress, calcar disruption, lateral wall disruption and proximal fragment flexion. The development of high quality evidence regarding this topic is necessary due to the vast impact that open reduction can have on elderly patients.

Surgical delay as a risk factor for wound infection after a hip fracture

PURPOSE

Analysis of significant risk factors for mortality and for medical and orthopaedic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Observational study of a prospective consecutive cohort of 697 patients diagnosed of hip fracture from December 2012 to December 2014. Average age was 85±9years and 520 were female (75%). Intracapsular fractures (308, 44%) were treated non-operatively, (19 patients), with cannulated screws (58) or with hip arthroplasty (228 bipolar, 3 total hip atrhoplasty). Extracapsular fractures (389, 56%) were reduced and fixed with 375 trochanteric nails and 14 sliding-hip-screw-plates. Patients were controlled clinically and radiographically in outpatient clinic after 1, 3, 6 and 12months. Bivariate analysis (Pearson, Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon) was applied to study statistically significant relations, and Odds Ratio were calculated.

RESULTS

Surgical delay reached 2.1±2.2days, 1.7±1.9 in medically stable patients. Main reason for delay was anticoagulant/anti-platelet therapy. Immediate weight-bearing was begun for 72% of patients. Average time in-hospital was 12±8days and 63% returned to previous environment. Lost-to-follow-up reached 4% after 1month and 8% after 6months. After 1year, 6% of previously-walking patients were unable to walk. Mortality reached 4% while in-hospital and 14% after 1year, with older age as only significant risk factor (p=0.004), OR=1.9. Wound infection developed in 2.3% of the series, and surgical delay longer than 24hours was a significant risk factor (p=0.023), with an OR=3.48 (1.1-10.8). Fixation failed in 7.9% of cannulated screws and 1.9% of trochanteric nails (1.1% cut-out, 0.8% nail fracture), while 2.7% of arthroplasty patients suffered a prosthesis dislocation and 1.3% a periprosthetic fracture. Pyelonephritis appeared in 6.7%, pneumonia in 6.3% and cardiac failure in 2.2% of patients; significant risk factors were previous comorbidity for pneumonia (p=0.007) (OR=2.7) and cardiac failure (p=0.007) (OR=9.7), as well as older age (p=0.006) (OR=2.2) for pneumonia.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical delay longer than 24hours has been an important risk factor for wound infection, a finding not previously described in literature. Older age is a significant risk factor for mortality and pneumonia, and previous comorbidity for cardiac failure and pneumonia.

Failure of fracture fixation in osteoporotic bone

This manuscript will provide an overview of how the age and osteoporosis related changes in mechanical properties of bone affect the stability of osteosynthesis constructs, both from a mechanical as well as from a clinical perspective. The manuscript will also address some of the principles of fracture fixation for osteoporotic fractures and discuss applications of osteoporotic fracture fixation at sites typically affected by fragility fractures, namely the distal radius, the proximal humerus, the femur and the spine. The primary aim of operative treatment in elderly individuals is the avoidance of immobilization of the patient. In selected cases conservative treatment might be required. Generally, choice of treatment should be individualized and based on the evaluation of patient-specific, fracture-specific and surgeon-specific aspects. The orthopaedic surgeon plays an essential role in enabling functional recovery by providing good surgery but a multidisciplinary approach is essential in order to support the patient to regain his/her quality of life after fragility fracture. Overall, the therapy of fractures in osteoporotic bone in the elderly requires a multidisciplinary therapeutic acute care concept including treatment of co-morbidities and correct choice of timing, and technique of the operative intervention.

Bone mechanical properties and changes with osteoporosis

This review will define the role of collagen and within-bone heterogeneity and elaborate the importance of trabecular and cortical architecture with regard to their effect on the mechanical strength of bone. For each of these factors, the changes seen with osteoporosis and ageing will be described and how they can compromise strength and eventually lead to bone fragility.

Thirty-day mortality after hip fractures: has anything changed?

Bone density insufficiency is the main cause for significant musculoskeletal trauma in the elderly population following low-energy falls. Hip fractures, in particular, represent an important public health concern taking into account the complicated needs of the patients due to their medical comorbidities as well as their rehabilitation and social demands. The annual cost for the care of these patients is estimated at around 2 billion pounds (£) in the UK and is ever growing. An increased early and late mortality rate is also recognised in these injuries together with significant adversities for the patients. Lately, in order to improve the outcomes of this special cohort of patients, fast-track care pathways and government initiatives have been implemented. It appears that these measures have contributed in a steady year-by-year reduction of the 30-day mortality rates. Whether we have currently reached a plateau or whether an ongoing reduction in mortality rates will continue to be observed is yet to be seen.