Cephalomedullary nail versus sliding hip screw for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients

Different surgical interventions for unstable intertrochanteric fracture of the femur: Network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Although a large body of evidence has reported on surgical approaches for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures, studies that comprehensively evaluate treatment outcomes are limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of extramedullary fixation (i.e., dynamic hip screw [DHS]), intramedullary fixation (i.e., the proximal femoral nailing [PFN]), and hemiarthroplasty (HA) for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures using network meta-analysis.

METHODS

This study meets the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses criteria. The Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome search protocol framework was used to search the Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception until June 2023.

RESULTS

A total of 15 randomized controlled trials, including 1282 patients were analyzed. The Harris hip score (HHS) after DHS fixation was the lowest compared with that of PFN fixation and HA. DHS fixation had a significantly longer operation time than that of PFN fixation. Compared with HA, a lower incidence of superficial wound infection was observed with PFN and DHS fixations. PFN was significantly more likely to be implant cut out compared with HA. Compared with DHS, PFN and HA showed a lower incidence of fracture healing malunion.

CONCLUSION

HA and PFN have good efficacy in improving the HHS and preventing joint deformities. However, HA showed a higher incidence of superficial infection than that observed with PFN, whereas a higher risk of screw cutout is observed with PFN than with HA.

A novel intramedullary nail design of intertrochanteric fracture fixation improved by proximal femoral nail antirotation

A proper and reliable fracture fixation is important for fracture healing. The proximal femoral intramedullary nail (IN), such as proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) or Gamma nail, is widely used for intertrochanteric fracture fixation. However, it still suffers considerable stress concentrations, especially at the junction between the nail and the blade or lag screw. In this study, we propose a novel intramedullary nail design to enhance the intramedullary nail integrity by introducing a bolt screw to form a stable triangular structure composed of the nail, the lag screw, and the bolt screw (PFTN, Proximal femoral triangle nail). Systematic finite element numerical simulations were carried out to compare the biomechanical performances of PFTN and PFNA under both static and dynamic loads during the postures of ascending and descending stairs. The simulation results highlight the advantages of the proposed PFTN design with lower stresses, less stress concentration, and higher structure stability.

Does intramedullary nail have advantages over dynamic hip screw for the treatment of AO/OTA31A1-A3? A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hip fractures are still unsolved problems nowadays. We evaluated the functional outcomes and complications in the treatment of hip fractures (AO/OTA31A1-A3) to find potential difference and risk between intramedullary nail (IMN) and dynamic hip screw (DHS).

METHOD

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library up to 19 June 2023 and retrieved any studies comparing IMN and DHS in treatment of Hip fractures. The main outcomes and complications were extracted from the included studies. The fixed-effect model was selected to pool the data for homogeneous studies (I² < 50%). Otherwise, the random effects model was selected (heterogeneity, I² > 50%). The analysis of sensitivity and subgroup was performed to explore the homogeneous studies among studies. The p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

30 RCT studies were included in this meta-analysis. There were significant difference of in the items of blood loss, screening time, femoral neck shortening, non-union, and femoral fractures (p < 0.05). Significant difference was found in the parameter of open reduction of fracture after sensitive analysis (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in the parameter of Mobility Score at the last follow-up after sensitive analysis (p ≥ 0.05). There was no significant difference in the parameters of open reduction of fracture, required blood transfusion, mean surgical time, hospital stays, time to healing, mean Harris Hip Score, infection, cut out, poor reduction, breakage of implant, failure of fixation, reoperation, and systemic complications of chest infection, decubital ulcer, urinary tract infection and persistent pain in the hip (p ≥ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis revealed that hip fractures treated with IMN have merits with lower rate of blood loss, femoral neck shortening and non-union; shortcoming of increased risk of femoral fractures. It is suggested that special attention should be paid to the risk of femoral fracture when intramedullary nail was inserted in the intraoperative.

Observational prospective unblinded case-control study to evaluate the effect of the Gamma3® distal targeting system for long nails on radiation exposure and time for distal screw placement

PURPOSE

To determine if the DTS decreases radiation exposure (primary outcome measure), fluoroscopy time (secondary outcome measure), and time to distal screw placement (secondary outcome measure) compared to the freehand "perfect circles" method when used for locking of cephalomedullary nails in the treatment of femur fractures METHODS: Fifty-eight patients with hip or femoral shaft fractures that were treated with a long cephalomedullary nail were enrolled in this study. Cohorts were determined based on the method of distal interlocking screw placement into either the "Perfect Circles" or "Distal Targeting" cohort. Time from cephalad screw placement to placement of final distal interlocking screw (seconds), radiation exposure (mGy), and fluoroscopy time (seconds) were compared between groups. Hospital quality measures were compared between cohorts.

RESULTS

Use of the DTS resulted in 77% (4.3x) lower radiation exposure (p < 0.001), 64% (2.7x) lower fluoroscopy time (p < 0.001), and 60% (1.7x) lower intraoperative time from end of cephalad screw placement to end of distal interlocking screw placement (p < 0.001) compared to the freehand "perfect circles" method. There was no difference in 30-day or 90-day complication rates between cohorts.

CONCLUSION

The Stryker Gamma3® Distal Targeting System is a safe, effective and efficient alternative to the freehand "perfect circles" method.

A comparison of hemiarthroplasty versus dynamic hip screw fixation for intertrochanteric femoral fractures: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Intertrochanteric fractures are predominantly treated by dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation. However, recent evidence has found acceptable clinical results following hemiarthroplasty for these fractures. Thus, a systematic review was conducted to compare hemiarthroplasty with DHS fixation for intertrochanteric fractures.

METHODS

A computerised search was performed, using the databases Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, with supplementation from Google Scholar and appropriate reference lists. Studies with comparative data comparing clinical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty versus DHS fixation were included. Data were extracted and quality assessment of the papers performed by 2 reviewers.

RESULTS

320 articles were independently reviewed by the investigators. A total of 10 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 2 randomised controlled trials and 8 cohort designs. 7 of the studies assessed unstable fracture patterns. There was no difference in operating time (SMD -1.169 min; 95% CI, -0.657 to 0.689) or blood transfusion volume (SMD-0.110 units; 95% CI, -0.520 to 0.891) between modalities. There was also no difference in length of stay (SMD -0.778 days; 95% CI, -0.606 to 0.336), mortality (RR 0.942; 95% CI, 0.749-1.183) or major complications. Hemiarthroplasty conferred significantly better Harris Hip Scores at 12 months (SMD 12.3; 95% CI, 0.0135-2.789) and allowed earlier weight-bearing than DHS fixation.

DISCUSSION

Qualitative and quantitative compilation of the included studies demonstrates hemiarthroplasty to result in better functional scores and a quicker time to weight-bearing than DHS fixation for intertrochanteric fractures. Results are comparable for other major parameters, including operative time, length of stay and mortality. Thus, hemiarthroplasty is a suitable alternative to DHS fixation for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients.

Intramedullary nailing of subtrochanteric fractures in elderly patients: Comparative study of helical blade cephalomedullary nail versus reconstruction nail

INTRODUCTION

Intramedullary nailing (IMN), which is a common method for treating subtrochanteric fractures, is conducted as cephalomedullary (CMN) or reconstruction (RCN) nailing. Numerous studies have reported the effectiveness of CMN, which requires a shorter surgery time and provides stronger fixation strength with blade-type devices. However, the radiographic and clinical outcomes of the use of CMN and RCN in elderly patients aged ≥65 years have not been compared yet. This study aimed to investigate whether CMN offers superior outcomes over RCN in the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures in elderly patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 60 elderly patients (17 men and 43 women; mean age: 74.9 years) diagnosed with subtrochanteric fractures and treated with IMN with helical blade CMN (CMN group: 30 patients) or RCN (RCN group: 30 patients) between January 2013 and December 2018 with at least 1 year of follow-up period. Radiologic outcomes were evaluated based on the postoperative state of alignment and the achievement and timing of bony union at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Merle d'Aubigné-Postel score. Radiologic and clinical outcomes in the two groups were compared and analyzed, and the occurrence of complications was examined.

RESULTS

The difference in malalignment between the two groups was not significant; however, the RCN group achieved more effective reduction. At the final follow-up, bony union was achieved within 18.9 weeks, on average, in 28 patients in the CMN group and within 21.6 weeks, on average, in 27 patients in the RCN group. Twenty patients in the CMN group and 26 in the RCN group showed good or better results according to the Merle d'Aubigné-Postel score. No significant differences were found for any of the parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of difficult subtrochanteric fractures in elderly patients, RCN can provide excellent reduction and strong fixation similar to CMN and can result in outstanding clinical and radiologic outcomes.

Sliding hip screw vs intramedullary nail for AO/OTA31A1-A3: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

to conduct a systematic review with consequent meta-analysis evaluating the best treatment for Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) 31A1-A3 trochanteric fractures when comparing the sliding hip screw (SHS) to the intramedullary nail (IMN). The outcomes used for comparison are major complications (in total, as well as nonunion and infection specifically), mortality rates, functional outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Search strings for the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Medline and Embase databases were developed with the help of a scientific librarian. Two authors screened the studies from the search string independently using Covidence.org and data extraction was performed similarly. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomised trials (ROB2) for RCT studies, and Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies - of Interventions (ROBINS-I) for non-RCT studies. Meta-analyses were performed using Log Risk Ratio as the primary effect estimate.

RESULTS

Of the 2,051 studies screened by the two authors, six RCTs and six non-RCTs were included in this meta-analysis, with a total of 10,402 patients. The results indicated no significant differences in total major complications, nonunion, infection or mortality between SHS and IMN treatments for AO/OTA 31A1, 31A2 and 31A3 trochanteric fractures. Due to a lack of compatible data, we were unable to perform a meta-analysis on function scores and PROM. However, there are trends that favour IMN for 31A1 and 31A2 fractures.

CONCLUSION

No significant difference between SHS and IMN was found in the meta-analysis in any of the examined AO/OTA fracture subtypes in terms of primary and secondary outcomes. When assessing function scores and PROM, we found trends favouring IMN for 31A1 and 31A2 fractures that should be explored further.

Treatment of intertrochanteric femur fracture with closed external fixation in high-risk geriatric patients: can it be the most reliable method that reduces mortality to minimum compared to proximal femoral nail and hemiarthroplasty?

The optimal surgical treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures (ITF) to minimize the increased mortality in geriatric patients with high anesthetic risk was investigated by comparing closed external fixation (EF), a minimal invasive and biological osteosynthesis technique, proximal femoral nail (PFN) and hemiarthroplasty (HA) methods.Three different surgical methods were performed to 167 patients who were admitted to our clinic for ITF between 2014 and 2020 and considered at high risk (American Society of Anesthesiologists III - American Society of Anesthesiologists IV) by the Anesthesiology and Reanimation Department. Patients with multi-trauma, osteoarthritis, those with malignancies and developmental hip dysplasia were excluded from the study. Group I included patients who underwent closed reduction - external fixation (n = 46), Group II included patients who underwent partial arthroplasty (n = 77), and Group III included those who received PFN (n = 44). All fractures were classified according to the Modified Evans (Kyle) method and divided into 2 categories as type 1-2 (stable) and type 3-4 (unstable).The mean operation duration was 23 minutes and follow-up time was 14 months in Group 1, in which there was no in-hospital mortality. Five patients died due to non-operative reasons within 1 year. The mean operation duration and follow-up time in Group 2 were 40 minutes and 12 months, respectively. Six patients (7.8%) died during the operation or hospitalization, while 17 patients died due to comorbidities within 1 year. In Group 3, the mean operation duration and follow-up time were 40 minutes and 13 months, respectively. One patient died during the operation and 1 patient (n = 2, 4.5%), within 24 hours in the postoperative intensive care unit. Seven patients died due to comorbidities within 1 year. Statistical analysis revealed that the mean duration of operation, postoperative hospital stay, overall mortality and blood product transfusion amount were significantly lower in the EF group compared to other treatment methods.Closed EF is the most reliable surgical method that can minimize mortality in geriatric patients compared to other surgical options, due to the short duration of the operation, no evacuation of the fracture hematoma, early mobilization, lack of blood transfusion requirement, and early union.

Wound drainage after proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) fixation may negatively affect the patients with intertrochanteric fractures: A prospective randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The effect of using closed suction drainage system with the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) system fixation on outcomes in treating intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs) is still unknown. This prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to examine whether routine drainage is useful for PFNA fixation in ITFs.

METHODS

A total of 80 patients with acute ITFs were treated with closed or mini-open reduction with PFNA fixation at the National Cheng Kung University Hospital and 60 eligible patients were randomized for whether to receive suction drainage. In clinical outcomes, the visual analog scale (VAS), morphine equivalent dosage, injured thigh width, body temperature, wound condition and wound infection were measured on postoperative day 1, 2, 4, 10, and 90. In laboratory outcomes, we evaluated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels postoperatively at different time points. Blood transfusion and total blood loss (TBL) were measured by Mercuriali's formula in millimeter.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the amount of blood transfusion received by the drained group (543.3 mL) was more than that by the undrained group (367.8 mL; p = 0.0074), and similarly, TBL in the drained group (750.1 mL) was more than that in the undrained group (537.4 mL; p = 0.0067). Regarding clinical and laboratory outcomes, compared with the undrained group, the drained group had a higher VAS score on postoperative day 2 (p = 0.0216). No difference was observed between the 2 groups for morphine equivalent dosage, thigh swelling, wound infection and hematoma, hospitalization period, or total number of complications at every time point after index procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Blood transfusion requirement and TBL were higher in the drained group than in the undrained group of PFNA fixation for ITFs. In addition, the closed drainage system may have manifested no short-term benefit for wound condition postoperatively.

Cephalo-medullary nailing versus dynamic hip screw with trochanteric stabilisation plate for the treatment of unstable per-trochanteric hip fractures: a meta-analysis

Background

The use of cephalo-medullary nails (CMN) is a widely accepted management option for the treatment of unstable per-trochanteric hip fractures. A growing body of literature has reported good functional and radiological outcomes in patients managed with a dynamic hip screw supplemented with a trochanteric stabilisation plate (DHS w/ TSP). However, a robust meta-analysis does not exist in the current literature comparing the two fixation methods.

Purposes

Management of these kinds of injuries is very challenging in orthopaedic practice, yet no strong evidence is in place to delineate which implant gives the best results. This meta-analysis is the first to determine the efficacy of CMN versus DHS w/ TSP.

Methods

An up-to-date literature search was performed using a predetermined search strategy and eligibility criteria. All suitable literature was appraised for methodological quality using the Cochrane’s collaboration tool. Hospital stay, operative time, intra-operative complication rate, mechanical failure rate, infection rates, revision rates and functional outcomes were all considered.

Results

A total of five studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results of this analysis suggest that CMN is only associated with lower revision rates when compared to DHS w/ TSP; however, no significant difference was found in terms of hospital stay, operative time, blood transfusion, complications rate and functional outcome.

Conclusion

Both CMN and DHS w/TSP proved to be reliable in the management of unstable per-trochanteric fractures; however, more extensive datasets are required to draw robust conclusions.

Cephalomedullary blade cut-ins: a poorly understood phenomenon

OBJECTIVES

Proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) cut-in is a unique phenomenon seen in pertrochanteric hip fractures treated with the PFNA. Cut-in refers to the superomedial migration of the proximal femoral blade into the femoral head and hip joint. We recognize that cut-in is a completely separate entity from the well-described cut-out failure. This study assesses relevant radiological and patient risks factors for cut-in.

DESIGN

Retrospective multicenter study looking at patients with pertrochanteric hip fractures managed with the Synthes PFNA SETTING: Four tertiary hospitals over 7 years.

PATIENTS

Patients with cut-ins were identified.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENT

The radiological appearance of this mode of failure was assessed and compared to cut-outs. Patient demographics, fracture configuration, time to implant failure (cut-in), bone mineral density, tip-apex distance, neck-shaft angle and position of the tip of the helical blade in the femoral head were collected.

RESULTS

There was a total of 1027 patients across 4 institutions with 23 patients with cut-in. Average neck-shaft angle was 133 degrees. 16 out of 19 patients had severe osteoporosis with BMD < - 2.5. 14 of 23 patients had poor placement of the blade. 13 of 23 had a tip-apex distance of more than 20 mm.

CONCLUSION

We propose a standardized nomenclature of "cut-in" for the phenomenon of superomedial migration of the proximal femoral blade. An anatomical neck-shaft reduction, accurate blade placement and increased surveillance for patients with severe osteoporosis are required to reduce the incidence and morbidity of cut-in.

Predicting Factors for Return to Prefracture Ambulatory Level in High Surgical Risk Elderly Patients Sustained Intertrochanteric Fracture and Treated With Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) With and Without Cement Augmentation

Introduction:

Postoperative outcomes in the elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture were generally poor with a low rate of return to prefracture ambulatory level (RPAL). Recent studies showed that proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) with cement augmentation might be useful for postoperative functional recovery. This study aimed to compare the outcomes in elderly patients with high surgical risk, American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) grade 3 or 4, who sustained intertrochanteric fractures and were treated with PFNA with and without cement augmentation, and to correlate perioperative surgical factors with the RPAL.

Methods:

A retrospective consecutive series was conducted based on 135 patients with prefracture ambulation classified as independent in community with or without a single cane (68 in augmented group and 67 in control group). Perioperative data and data on the complications within 1-year postsurgery were collected and compared. Predictive factors for RPAL were analyzed via logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The overall 1-year postoperative mortality rate was 10% (n = 14) with no significant difference between groups (P = .273). The proportion of elderly patients with RPAL in the augmented group was significantly higher than for those in the control group (48% vs 29%, P = .043). Via univariate analysis, ASA grade 4 (P = .077), history of stroke (P = .035), and use of cement augmentation (P = .041) were correlated with RPAL. However, multivariate regression analysis showed that ASA grade 4 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.18-0.90, P = .026) and use of cement augmentation (OR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.22-6.05, P = .014) were the significant predictors for RPAL.

Discussion and Conclusions:

The results of the present study showed that PFNA with cement augmentation is safe and effectiveness in the intertrochanteric fracture treatment of elderly. Postoperative functional recovery, like RPAL, in elderly patients who sustained intertrochanteric fractures is relatively low, especially in those with ASA grade 4. However, cement augmentation with PFNA might be helpful for increasing the RPAL in high-surgical-risk geriatric patients.

Loss of the posteromedial support: a risk factor for implant failure after fixation of AO 31-A2 intertrochanteric fractures

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to analyze cases of AO31-A2 intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs) and to identify the relationship between the loss of the posteromedial support and implant failure.

METHODS

Three hundred ninety-four patients who underwent operative treatment for ITF from January 2003 to December 2017 were enrolled. Focusing on posteromedial support, the A2 ITFs were divided into two groups, namely, those with (Group A, n = 153) or without (Group B, n = 241) posteromedial support post-operatively, and the failure rates were compared. Based on the final outcomes (failed or not), we allocated all of the patients into two groups: failed (Group C, n = 66) and normal (Group D, n = 328). We separately analyzed each dataset to identify the factors that exhibited statistically significant differences between the groups. In addition, a logistic regression was conducted to identify whether the loss of posteromedial support of A2 ITFs was an independent risk factor for fixation failure. The basic factors were age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, side of affected limb, fixation method (intramedullary or extramedullary), time from injury to operation, blood loss, operative time and length of stay.

RESULTS

The failure rate of group B (58, 24.07%) was significantly higher than that of group A (8, 5.23%) (χ = 23.814, P < 0.001). Regarding Groups C and D, the comparisons of the fixation method (P = 0.005), operative time (P = 0.001), blood loss (P = 0.002) and length of stay (P = 0.033) showed that the differences were significant. The logistic regression revealed that the loss of posteromedial support was an independent risk factor for implant failure (OR = 5.986, 95% CI: 2.667-13.432) (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

For AO31-A2 ITFs, the loss of posteromedial support was an independent risk factor for fixation failure. Therefore, posteromedial wall reconstruction might be necessary for the effective treatment of A2 fractures that lose posteromedial support.

Outcome of intramedullary nailing treatment for intertrochanteric femoral fractures

INTRODUCTION

The OTA/AO type 31 A3 intertrochanteric fracture has a transverse or reverse oblique fracture at the lesser trochanteric level, which accentuates the varus compressive stress in the region of the fracture and the implant. Intramedullary fixation using different types of nails is commonly preferred. The purpose of this study is to evaluate intertrochanteric femoral fractures with intramedullary nail treatment in regard to surgical procedure, complications, and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

From one level 1 trauma center, 216 consecutive adult intertrochanteric femoral fractures (OTA/AO type 31 A3) were retrospectively identified with intramedullary nail fixation from 2004 through 2013. Of these, 193 patients (58.5% female) met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 70 years (range 19-96 years).

RESULTS

Cephalomedullary nails were utilized in 176 and reconstruction nails in 17 patients. After the index procedure, 86% healed uneventfully. Nonunion development was observed in 6% and 5% had an unscheduled reoperation due to implant or fixation failure. Active smoking was reported in 16.6%. Current smokers had an increased nonunion risk compared to those who do not currently smoke (15.6% vs. 4.3%; p = 0.016). The femoral neck angle averaged 128.0° ± 5°. Fixation failure occurred in 11.1% of patients with a neck-shaft-angle < 125° compared to 2.6% (4/155) of patients with a neck-shaft angle ≥125° (p = 0.021). Patients treated with a reconstruction nail required a second surgical intervention in 23.5%, which was no different compared to 25.0% in the cephalomedullary group (p = 0.893). In the cephalomedullary group, 4.5% developed a nonunion compared to 23.5% in the reconstruction group (p = 0.002). Painful hardware led to hardware removal in 8.8%. All of them were treated with a cephalomedullary device (p = 0.180). During the last office visit, two-thirds of the patients reported no or only mild pain but most patients had reduced hip range of motion.

CONCLUSION

Intramedullary nailing is a reliable surgical technique when performed with adequate reduction. Varus reduction with a neck-shaft angle < 125° resulted in an increase in fixation failures. Patient and implant factors affected nonunion formation. Smoking increased nonunion formation. Utilization of a cephalomedullary device reduced the nonunion rate, but had higher rates of painful prominent hardware compared to reconstruction nailing.

Is PFNA-II a better implant for stable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly population ? A prospective randomized study

INTRODUCTION

Intertrochanteric fracture is one of the most common and severe fractures occurring in the elderly population. We conducted a randomized prospective study to compare the functional and radiological outcome of Proximal Femoral Nail anti-rotation-Asia(PFNA-II) and Dynamic Hip screw (DHS) used in fixation of stable (AO type 31 A1-A2.1) intertrochanteric fractures in elderly.

METHODS

60 elderly patients with stable intertrochanteric fractures treated with DHS and PFNA-II between August 2014 to Dec 2016 were enrolled in the study. Intraoperative variables-surgical time, blood loss, fluoroscopy time and post-operative variables-union rate, change in neck shaft angle(NSA), functional outcome in terms of Modified Harris Hip Score(HHS) & SF-12, complication rate and mortality at one year were studied and compared between both the groups.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients in our study was 70.96 years. We found patients treated with DHS required significantly longer surgical time and had more blood loss compared to PFNA-II group. However, there was no significant difference in both the groups in terms of intra-operative fluoroscopy time, change in neck shaft angle, union rate, complication rate and Modified Harris Hip Score & SF-12 at three months; six months and one year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Both DHS and PFNA-II can be used effectively in the treatment of elderly patients with stable intertrochanteric fracture with comparable outcome. However, in high-risk elderly patients requiring shorter surgical time and less blood loss, PFNA-II can be used.

Unstable Intertrochanteric Hip Repair With Short Cephalomedullary Nail

INTRODUCTION

Approximately half of all hip fractures are intertrochanteric femur fractures. This video demonstrates the technique of repair of an unstable intertrochanteric hip fracture using a cephalomedullary device.

METHODS

The patient is an 88-year-old woman presenting with an intertrochanteric hip fracture secondary to a low-energy injury. The patient was indicated for surgery due to the unstable nature of the fracture.

RESULTS

This video demonstrates the cephalomedullary nailing technique for the repair of an unstable intertrochanteric hip fracture after a low-energy injury. Anatomical reduction and stable fixation were obtained with this technique.

CONCLUSIONS

The case demonstrates a cephalomedullary technique of intertrochanteric fracture fixation using a cephalomedullary nail. The technique has significant advantages including minimal intraoperative blood loss, shorter operative times, potential for more biological healing with a load-sharing device, and low infection rate.

Nonunion and Reoperation After Internal Fixation of Proximal Femur Fractures: A Systematic Review

Nonunion after fixation of a proximal femur fracture is associated with increased disability, pain, and cost to both patient and health care system. Understanding the effect of fixation method and fracture pattern on healing is important to optimize healing. The authors evaluated surgical healing, nonunion rate, and reoperation rate after internal fixation of proximal femur fracture, especially since the year 2000. They performed a systematic review of all published records from PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Review system. The burden of proximal femoral fracture extends beyond acute disability, as it carries a high risk of long-term morbidity and mortality. Choice of fixation method for high-risk fractures is critical to reduce nonunion and reoperation rates. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(2):e162-e171.].

Hepatitis C is an Independent Risk Factor for Perioperative Complications and Nonroutine Discharge in Patients Treated Surgically for Hip Fractures

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between noncirrhotic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, perioperative complications, and discharge status in patients undergoing surgical procedures for hip fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective epidemiological study was performed, querying the National Hospital Discharge Survey. Patients were selected using the International Classification of Diseases-9 diagnostic codes for hip fracture and primary procedural codes for open reduction internal fixation, hemiarthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty, or internal fixation. Patients with concurrent cirrhosis, HIV, hepatitis A, B, D, or E were excluded. Pearson χ tests, independent-samples t test, and multivariable binary logistic regression were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Two cohorts surgically treated for a hip fracture were identified and compared. The first cohort included 5377 patients with a concurrent diagnosis of noncirrhotic HCV infection (HCV+) and the second included 4,712,159 patients without a diagnosis of HCV (HCV-). The HCV+ cohort was younger and had fewer medical comorbidities, yet was found to have a longer length of hospital stay, higher rates of nonroutine discharge, and higher rates of complications than the HCV- cohort. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that HCV+ is an independent risk factor for perioperative complications and nonroutine discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our study demonstrates a negative association between noncirrhotic HCV infection and hip fracture surgery outcomes. Caution and appropriate preparation should be taken when surgically treating hip fractures in HCV+ patients because of higher risk of perioperative complications and nonroutine discharge.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Outcomes after unstable pertrochanteric femur fracture: intermediate versus long cephalomedullary nails

PURPOSE

Optimal cephalomedullary nail (CMN) length for unstable pertrochanteric femur fractures is controversial. Long CMNs (L-CMNs) are currently recommended; however, intermediate-length CMNs (I-CMNs) may provide stable fixation without the additional surgical steps required by L-CMNs. We analyzed outcomes after unstable pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with L-CMNs or I-CMNs to determine whether functional outcomes, perioperative measures, complications, and mortality and reoperation rates differ by CMN length.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records at our institution for 100 patients who received surgical treatment for pertrochanteric femur fractures from June 2014 to June 2016. Data from 43 unstable pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with L-CMNs (n = 25) or I-CMNs (n = 18) were analyzed. We evaluated operative time, fluoroscopy time, intraoperative blood loss, blood transfusions, and perioperative complications; peri-implant fracture, malunion, reoperation, and death; and neck-shaft angle, tip-apex distance, and 6-month postoperative functional scores. We analyzed categorical data with Fisher exact tests and continuous data with Student t tests. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

The I-CMN group had shorter operative time (68 versus 92 min; P = 0.048), shorter fluoroscopy time (72 versus 110 s; P = 0.019), and less intraoperative blood loss (80 versus 168 mL; P < 0.001) than the L-CMN group. The groups were similar in rates of blood transfusion, perioperative complications, peri-implant fracture, malunion, reoperation, and death. Six-month postoperative functional scores were similar between groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We found operative advantages of I-CMNs over L-CMNs with no difference in treatment outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective case series study.

Optimizing stability in AO/OTA 31-A2 intertrochanteric fracture fixation in older patients with osteoporosis

Objectives

To compare the functional and radiographic outcomes of InterTAN nail (IT) and proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) for managing primary AO/OTA 31-A2 intertrochanteric hip fractures (IHFs) in older osteoporotic patients.

Methods

Patients aged 60 years or older who received surgical treatment for IHFs (AO/OTA 3.1A2.1-A2.3) with IT or PFNA were retrospectively evaluated. The primary outcome was the postoperative treatment failure rate. The secondary outcome was the Harris Hip Score (HHS).

Results

A total of 326 osteoporotic cases (326 hips: IT, n = 162; PFNA, n = 164) were assessed with a mean follow-up of 43.5 months (range, 38–48 months). For the entire cohort, the incidence of postoperative treatment failure (periprosthetic fracture and reoperation) was 29/326 (8.9%); the IT-treated cohort (7/162, 4.3%) had a significantly lower rate compared with the PFNA-treated cohort (22/165, 13.3%). The incidence of postoperative periprosthetic fractures was significantly lower in the IT-treated cohort than in the PFNA-treated cohort (2.5% vs 7.9%). The postoperative HHS at the final follow-up was not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion

IT might show a better outcome in managing osteoporotic AO/OTA 31-A2 IHFs in terms of periprosthetic fracture and reoperation compared with PFNA.

Comparing the Intramedullary Nail and Extramedullary Fixation in Treatment of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures

Treatment options for unstable intertrochanteric fractures include intramedullary nail and extramedullary fixation, although evidence regarding the most appropriate treatment for such fractures remains controversial. Our hypothesis was that there would be no obvious differences in mortality rates, functional outcomes and complications between the two groups. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis to compare the relative advantages of intramedullary nail and extramedullary fixation. A total of 10 randomized controlled trials including only patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures were included in the final analysis. We found that no statistically significant difference in one-year mortality was observed between the two groups (RR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.55-1.10, p = 0.160). Analysis of exact p values from five included studies indicated that functional outcomes were markedly better for patients of the intramedullary nail group when compared with those of the extramedullary fixation group (p = 0.0028), although evidence remains controversial. Higher incidences of all complications were noted for extramedullary fixation (RR:1.48, 95% CI: 1.12-1.96, p = 0.006). However, no significant differences in implant-related complications were observed between the two groups (RR:1.20, 95% CI: 0.73-1.97, p = 0.475). Therefore, comparing with extramedullary fixation, the intramedullary nail method would be more reliable and should be encouraging for unstable intertrochanteric fractures.

Implant-Related Complications and Mortality After Use of Short or Long Gamma Nail for Intertrochanteric and Subtrochanteric Fractures: A Prospective Study with Minimum 13-Year Follow-up

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rates of implant-related complications and mortality after treatment of an intertrochanteric or subtrochanteric fracture with a short or long Gamma nail.

Methods:

Between September 1998 and August 2003, 644 patients at 2 centers treated with a long or short Gamma nail for a hip fracture were prospectively enrolled in this study. These patients were followed until they reached 1 of the study end points, which included death, a reoperation directly related to the Gamma nail, or the end date of the study.

Results:

The average age (and standard deviation) of the patients included in the study was 81.3 ± 8.6 years at the time of the operation, and 28.3% of the patients were male. The rate of implant-related complications was 9.9%. The most common complications included peri-implant fracture (4.2%), proximal lateral thigh discomfort requiring extraction of the implant (2.0%), and lag-screw cutout (1.1%). Interestingly, more than half (56%) of the 27 peri-implant fractures occurred >1.5 years after the index operation. The median time from the operation to death was 2.9 years (range, 0 to 17.1 years). The 30-day mortality rate after treatment was 9.5%. Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class-3 or 4 physical status had a significantly higher risk of mortality than ASA class-1 patients.

Conclusions:

Gamma nails are effective in the treatment of intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. However, 9.8% of patients had complications requiring additional surgery. The most common serious complications include peri-implant fracture and lag-screw cutout. Several peri-implant fractures occurred long after the index procedure. Patients had a high rate of mortality (27%) after 1 year, and higher preoperative ASA class was found to be a predictor of increased risk of mortality. Therefore, clinicians must carefully consider patients’ preoperative comorbidities when counselling patients on the risks of surgery.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Cementless calcar-replacement stem with integrated greater trochanter plate for unstable intertrochanteric fracture in very elderly patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical results of rigid fixation of the greater trochanter fragment through a consecutive hemiarthroplasty series using a cementless and modular calcar-replacement prosthesis with an integrated plate (MOD-Centaur stem) with 1-year follow-up in very elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures.

METHODS

We assessed 44 consecutive very elderly patients (age >85 years; 2 men, 42 women; mean age at surgery: 89.6 years) with an unstable intertrochanteric fracture who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty using the MOD-Centaur stem by the same surgeon. Operative time and blood loss were evaluated, and postoperative complications and mortality rate within 1 year were assessed. Bony union of the greater trochanter was evaluated using plain X-ray images at least 6 months postoperatively. Walking ability was evaluated at the time of discharge and at 1 year postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 95.8 min, and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 358.0 mL. Postoperative peripheral infection occurred in one patient. Four patients died within 1 year postoperatively (mortality rate: 9.1%). Bony union of the greater trochanter was achieved in all the patients who had a plain X-ray taken at least 6 months postoperatively. At 1-year follow-up, 20 patients could walk independently.

CONCLUSION

Hemiarthroplasty using the MOD-Centaur stem for unstable intertrochanteric fracture in very elderly patients offers favorable outcomes. These findings encourage early walking without any loading limitations, despite severe osteoporosis, and emphasize the importance of greater trochanteric fixation, which reconstructs the mechanism of the gluteus medius muscle.

Trends in the management of intertrochanteric femur fractures in the United States 2005-2011

OBJECTIVES

In the last 2 decades, surgical treatment of intertrochanteric (IT) femur fractures has shown a continuing trend towards the increased use of intramedullary nails (IMN) and decreased use of sliding hip screws (SHS). Recent trends in the United States regarding the use of these implants, including charges and reimbursement, have not been investigated.

METHODS

A national database of Medicare patients (PearlDiver, Inc.) was queried using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for patients with surgical dates from 2005-2011.

RESULTS

A total of 34,759 SHS or IMN procedures for intertrochanteric femur fractures were identified from 2005-2011. There was a significant increase in the percentage of IMN compared to SHS, from 46.9% IMN in 2005 to 79.1% in 2011. The average charges for IMN and SHS increased. Statistically higher rates of PE (p&lt;0.001), DVT (p&lt;0.001), MI (p&lt;0.001), respiratory failure (p&lt;0.001), UTI (p&lt;0.001), pneumonia (p&lt;0.001), CVA (p&lt;0.001) and blood transfusion (p&lt;0.001) were noted in the IMN group. The SHS group had higher 1 year (4.3% vs 3.8%, p = 0.012) and 2 year (5.8% vs 5.0%, p = 0.002) mortality rates.

CONCLUSIONS

The previously recognised trend of increasing use of IMN for IT femur fractures has continued. The overall incidence of operative IT femur fractures is not increasing at this time. The cost of IMN remains higher than SHS.

Lacking evidence for performance of implants used for proximal femoral fractures - A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Evaluation of the long-term performance of implants used in trauma surgery relies on post-marked clinical studies since no registry based implant assessment exists. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the evidence of performance of implants currently used for treating proximal femoral fractures (PFF) in Denmark.

METHOD

PubMed was searched for clinical studies on primary PFF with follow-up ≥12 months, reporting implant-related failure and evaluating one of following: DHS, CHS, HipLoc, Gamma3, IMHS, InterTan, PFN, PFNA or PTN.

LIMITS

English language and publication date after 1st of January 1990.

RESULTS

All studies were evidence level II or III. 30 publications for SHS were found: 13 of CHS, 15 of DHS and 2 of HipLoc. In total CHS was evaluated in 1110 patients (900 prospectively), DHS in 2486 (567 prospectively) and HipLoc in 251 (all prospectively). Fifty-four publications for nails were found: 13 of Gamma3, 7 of IMHS, 5 of InterTan, 10 of PFN, 24 of PFNA and 0 of PTN. In total Gamma3 was evaluated in 1088 patients (829 prospectively), IMHS in 1543 (210 prospectively), InterTan in 595 (585 prospectively), PFN in 716 (557 prospectively), PFNA in 1762 (1018 prospectively) and PTN in 0.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical evidence behind the current implants used for proximal femoral fractures is weak considering the number of implants used worldwide. Sporadic evaluation is not sufficient to identify long term problems. A systematic post market surveillance of implants used for fracture treatment, preferable by a national register, is necessary in the future.

Comparing the Intramedullary Nailing Method Versus Dynamic Hip Screw in Treatment of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Dynamic Hip Screw fixation is currently considered as a standard treatment for pre-trochanteric fractures; however, due to the long-term hospitalization and some other complications, some researchers have proposed intramedullary nailing as the alternative surgical treatment. The aim of this study was to compare and examine the consequences of the using intramedullary nailing method versus Dynamic Hip Screw.

METHODS

In this study 114 patients with unstable Intertrochanteric fracture refer to Rasoul Akram hospital during 2011 to 2013 has been selected. After reduction, fixation surgery with PFN nail (60 patients) and Dynamic Hip Screw (54 patients) has been performed. All patients were screen during surgery and six months after surgery and some parameters like, bleeding, union, as well as complications such as collapse, varus and medialization of the distal fragment were record and patients.

RESULTS

About some parameters like cutting length, surgery duration, bleeding there were significant differences between two groups. In six months follow up period 2 patinas from nail and 8 patients from DHS group had non-union. Also from the point of radiologic and clinical parameters, like anterior thigh pain, cut out, medialization of the distal fragment, collapse of the neck, walking recovery and daily activities were significant between two groups.

CONCLUSION

Due to the reduced hospital stay in intramedullary nailing method and the necessity of doing repeated surgery and applying intramedullary nailing when the patients are not treated with external fixation, the researchers recommend intramedullary nailing as the first option in treating such patients.

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head following trochanteric fractures in adults: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) following trochanteric fractures (TFx) is infrequent. The causal relationship between ANFH and TFx remains controversial. Although several major risk factors for ANFH have been proposed, most of them remain under discussion. In this study we undertook a systematic review of the literature to investigate the incidence of AVN, risk factors and outcomes following Tfx fixation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken using the PRISMA guidelines with no language restriction. Case reports of ANFH and series of TFx with or without cases of ANFH published between inception of journals to December 2013 were eligible for inclusion. Relevant information was divided in two sections. Part I: included the analysis of detailed case reports of ANFH, either published isolated or included in series of TFx, with the objective of establishing potential risk factors, clinical and radiological presentation, time to development, treatment and outcome of this complication. Part II: analyzed series of TFx, which included cases of ANFH with or without details of aetiology, treatment modalities and outcomes, with the objective of assessing the incidence of ANFH in TFx.

RESULTS

Overall 80 articles with 192 cases of ANFH after TFx met the inclusion criteria. The most probable developmental pathway appears to be a disruption of the extra osseous arterial blood supply to the femoral head. Suggested risk factors included high-energy trauma with fracture comminution and displacement, and an atypical course of the fracture line, more proximal, at the base of the neck. Most cases were diagnosed within the first two years after fracture. The clinical and radiological features appear to be similar to those of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The incidence of AVFH with a minimum of 1-year follow-up was calculated 0.95%, and with a minimum 2-year follow-up it was 1.37%. Total hip replacement was the mainstay of treatment.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of AVFH after Tfx fixation is small 1.37% within the first 2 years of injury. Risk factors for the development of this complication are related to the severity of trauma, fragment geometry and fracture displacement. Optimum surgery of these fractures cannot guarantee prevention of ANFH.