Sliding hip screw in pelvis: a rare intra-operative complication

S Naidu Maripuri1, U K Debnath, S Hemmadi

  • 1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XW, UK. naidumsuk@yahoo.co.in

Insights

A sliding hip screw (SHS) penetrated the pelvis during surgery for a 78-year-old man's femur fracture. This report details the rare complication and its successful surgical retrieval.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Trauma Management
  • Surgical Complications

Background:

  • Intertrochanteric femur fractures are common in the elderly.
  • Sliding hip screw (SHS) fixation is a standard surgical procedure.
  • Intra-operative complications, though rare, require prompt management.

Observation:

  • An unusual intra-operative complication occurred during SHS fixation.
  • The SHS penetrated the pelvic bone during the procedure.
  • The patient was a 78-year-old male with an intertrochanteric fracture.

Findings:

  • The sliding hip screw (SHS) migrated into the pelvis.
  • A novel technique was employed for the safe retrieval of the SHS.
  • Successful fixation and removal were achieved without further complications.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of vigilance during SHS fixation.
  • Provides a valuable case study for managing SHS pelvic penetration.
  • Contributes to the literature on rare orthopedic surgical complications.

Related Concept Videos