Posterior Hip Dislocation with Ipsilateral Femoral Head and Shaft Fracture - Using a Temporary External Fixator as a...

Complex fractures are increasing because of various traumatic mechanisms. They drift from standard classifications, and their treatment is controversial. Of such cases are hip dislocations with associated fractures of the ipsilateral femur.

This case report describes the condition of a 30-year-old man involved in a motor vehicle collision. Clinical examination, X-rays, and computed tomography scan revealed a posterior hip dislocation with an ipsilateral femoral head and mid-shaft fractures. The patient was treated by closed reduction of hip dislocation using a temporarily applied external fixator followed by intramedullary nailing of the femoral shaft. Achieving a closed reduction is a challenge with ipsilateral fractures but it should be favored over open reduction due to a lower risk of complications. The type of femoral head fracture, in this case, may have aided in an easier reduction.

Hip dislocation is an orthopedic emergency and its treatment is challenging if associated with ipsilateral fractures. The decision of a closed versus an open approach should be made after considering the management plans of other injuries.