Hip arthroplasty in failed intertrochanteric fractures in elderly
Javahir A Pachore1, Vikram I Shah1, Ashish N Sheth1
1Department of Orthopedics, Shalby Hospitals Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Indian Journal of Orthopaedics
|January 1, 2014
Summary
Hip arthroplasty offers a predictable functional outcome for elderly patients with failed intertrochanteric fractures. This challenging procedure serves as a viable salvage option, restoring ambulation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Geriatric Trauma
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Failed intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly present significant surgical challenges.
- Limited treatment options exist for these complex cases.
- Hip arthroplasty is explored as a salvage procedure despite technical difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of hip arthroplasty as a salvage procedure for failed intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients.
- To assess functional outcomes and complications associated with this approach.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study included 30 elderly patients (average age 67.3 years) who underwent hip arthroplasty for failed intertrochanteric fractures.
- Various arthroplasty types (cemented/uncemented, bipolar/total hip) were used.
- Trochanteric nonunions were addressed using tension band principles.
Main Results:
- The average follow-up period was 20 months (range 6-48 months).
- No patients were lost to follow-up, and no dislocations occurred.
- All patients achieved ambulation by the final follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Hip arthroplasty can yield predictable functional outcomes in elderly patients with failed intertrochanteric fractures.
- Despite technical demands, it is a valuable salvage option for this patient cohort.
- Proper surgical technique is crucial for successful outcomes.
