[Intra-operative fractures in hip arthroplasties: predisposing factors]

A G Graftiaux1, P Kehr, G Lang

  • 1Hôpital Stéphanie (Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg), 26, route de la Lisière, F-67026, Strasbourg Cedex, France.

Insights

Intraoperative femoral fractures during total hip arthroplasty (THA) are linked to patient age, female sex, and bone fragility, particularly during stem impaction or in revision surgeries.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Geriatric Medicine

Context:

  • Intraoperative femoral fractures are a known complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA).
  • Understanding epidemiological factors and predisposing conditions is crucial for prevention.
  • This study analyzes cases from multiple centers in eastern France.

Purpose:

  • To analyze the epidemiology and predisposing factors of intraoperative femoral fractures during THA.
  • To identify specific surgical steps and patient characteristics associated with fracture occurrence.

Summary:

  • A multi-center study of 51 intraoperative femoral fractures in THA patients (average age 73, M/F ratio 0.5) found fractures often involved the diaphysis or cortical defects.
  • Fractures occurred during reaming/impaction (50%) or dislocation (25%).
  • Predisposing factors included bone mineral rarefaction (age, female sex) and reoperation cases with cortical bone fragility.

Impact:

  • Findings highlight the importance of patient bone quality and surgical technique in preventing femoral fractures during THA.
  • Identifies high-risk scenarios, aiding in surgical planning and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Contributes to improving patient safety and outcomes in hip replacement surgery.

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