[Augmentation techniques on the proximal femur]

Due to the demographic change fractures of the proximal femur are an increasing major healthcare problem and are associated with the highest mortality among frailty fractures.

These mainly osteoporosis-associated fractures of the hip often represent a surgical challenge and the outcome has a decisive influence on the preservation of function and independency of orthogeriatric patients. Augmentation techniques could improve the stability of osteosynthesis in proximal femoral fractures.

Cement augmentation of proximal femoral nailing (PFNA) for the treatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures is the most commonly used and standardized method of augmentation for these fractures by which a safer condition for immediate full weight bearing and mobilization can be achieved.

In biomechanical and clinical studies good fracture healing was shown and there was no evidence of cement-associated complications in augmented PFNA nailing. In the majority of patients the mobility level prior to trauma could be achieved.

In addition to the optimal surgical treatment, secondary prevention such as osteoporosis management to avoid further fractures is crucial in the treatment of these patients. This article is based on the current literature and provides an overview of the possible applications of cement augmentation for the treatment of proximal femoral fractures. In addition the surgical approach as well as previous scientific data on an established osteosynthesis using cement-augmented PFNA for the treatment of pertrochanteric frailty fractures are presented.