[Femoral fractures in osteodystrophy deformans (Paget's disease). Treatment results]

Between 1958 and 1986 21 fractures of the femur in Osteodystrophia deformans (Paget's disease) were treated at the accident hospital Meidling; of these 13 patients were female and 8 of male. The average age was 73.4 years. In two cases the basic illness was known, in 19 cases the fracture was the first manifestation of the illness. In 7 cases a polyostotic manifestation was evident. The fractures were localized as follows: 7 in the proximal, 7 in the middle, 1 in the distal third of the shaft, 5 subtrochanteric, 1 supracondylar. Apart from one subtrochanteric torsion fracture, all were flexure fractures without splinters. 19 fractures were stabilized by an operation: 17 by intramedullary nailing (with cerclage), 1 steep plate, 1 Ender nail. One case was treated by an extension, whereas in one case no operation was performed. The following complications were observed: one fracture of the steep plate, one delayed healing of the fracture after intramedullary nailing. No infections could be observed. In general, healing of the fracture in Osteodystrophia deformans does not seem to be delayed. The different possibilities of intramedullary nailing of the femur - possibly together with osteotomies to eliminate curvature - can be recommended for fractures in Osteodystrophia deformans.