[Results of angled plated osteosynthesis in per- and subtrochanteric fractures in the elderly]

From 1/86 to 12/89 62 old patients (average age: 82.6) with intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures underwent surgery by using angeled plates. The postoperative course showed complications in 32.2%, while only 1 patient died. In 3 of 5 cases with dislocation of the angeled plate re-osteosynthesis was performed. 4 other complications (2x haematoma, 2x wound dehiscence) needed further surgery. During the first three months 3 other dislocations occurred. In two cases re-osteosynthesis was carried out. Due to these results and the high rate of complications we are of the opinion that the indication for the use of the angeled plate osteosynthesis in old patients has to be limited in favor of other methods like the dynamic hip screw or total hip replacement.