Periarticular fractures around the hip and knee: fix or replace?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Geriatric medicine

Background:

• Increasing incidence of periarticular fragility fractures around the hip and knee.
• Surgical interventions like internal fixation and joint replacement are common treatment options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on internal fixation versus primary joint replacement for acute periarticular hip and knee fractures.
• To evaluate the potential advantages of primary replacement in the acute setting.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies comparing internal fixation and primary replacement for periarticular hip and knee fractures.
• Analysis of outcomes related to early rehabilitation and weightbearing.

Main Results:

• Primary joint replacement in the acute stage may facilitate earlier rehabilitation and weightbearing compared to secondary replacement.
• Internal fixation remains a viable option for these fractures.

Conclusions:

• The choice between internal fixation and primary replacement for acute periarticular hip and knee fractures depends on patient factors and treatment goals.
• Early joint replacement may offer advantages in specific patient populations requiring expedited mobilization.