Formation of impacted fractures of the femoral neck: an experimental study

Nine femoral-neck specimens were exposed to a fracturing force applied to the femoral head, perpendicular to the axis of the femur, simulating a fall onto the greater trochanter. The mechanical strength and fracture type were investigated in a universal testing machine. In all nine specimens, the superior (cranial) cortex of the femoral neck fractured first, followed by some compression and fracture of the inferior cortex, whereby impacted fractures had been formed. After application of additional force, dislocated fractures occurred. This method may be of value in experimental studies of impacted fractures of the femoral neck. RELEVANCE: This study describes an experimental procedure for formation of impacted femoral neck fractures. Hopefully this technique may be employed in further examining the nature and biomechanics of impacted hip fractures. The ultimate aim would seem to be a classification with regard to which fractures require surgery and which may be treated conservatively.