Bilateral spontaneous inter-trochanteric fractures of proximal femurs

Bilateral spontaneous inter-trochanteric fractures of the proximal femur are rare. We report an unusual case of bilateral intertrochanteric fractures of the proximal femur in a 92 year old lady.

A 92 year old lady presented to us with one week history of pain in both hips and poor mobilisation. There was no history of mechanical fall. The initial plain films of the hips did not show any fractures and the diagnosis was made by MRI scans. She underwent bilateral fixation of the fractures with dynamic hip screws. After a period of rehabilitation she returned to the pre injury mobilisation status.

Bilateral spontaneous intertrochanteric fractures of the hip due to osteoporosis are not that common. These rare fractures are usually associated with major trauma, renal disease, osteoporosis, osteomalacia, long term corticosteroid treatment and epilepsy.

Early diagnosis with high index of suspicion and appropriate investigations are mandatory in the management of these fractures.