Unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the hip

In spite of a host of operative techniques and fixation devices, no one method of treatment has gained universal acceptance for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures. Although it is important to determine if a fracture is stable or unstable, stability should be considered a relative term. Degree of stability should be assessed by a careful review of the preoperative radiographs as well as postreduction films and palpation of comminution at surgery. Those fractures with minimal to moderate posteromedial comminution are probably best managed by anatomic reduction and compression hip screw fixation. The collapsing device will allow the fracture to obtain its own stability (Figure 5). However, in severely comminuted fractures the screw may slide completely prior to the stable apposition of cortical surfaces of the proximal and distal fragments. Fixation failure will result in a significant percentage of these fractures unless a stable reduction is obtained surgically. Medial displacement osteotomy, valgus osteotomy, or augmentation with cement should be considered in these high-risk fractures. Regardless of the reduction technique the proximal fragment must be aligned properly with the femoral shaft. If the major fracture fragments are prevented from reaching a stable configuration, fixation failure will likely occur (Figure 6).