Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Unstable Proximal Femur Fractures Fixed With Anatomical Proximal Locking...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Geriatric fracture management

Background:

• Peritrochanteric fractures are common proximal femur fractures, significantly impacting elderly mobility.
• These fractures represent a substantial cause of disability in older populations.
• Optimal fixation methods for unstable peritrochanteric fractures remain a subject of debate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of unstable proximal femur fractures treated with proximal femur locking compression plates (PF-LCP).
• To assess complications associated with PF-LCP fixation in this patient cohort.
• To compare mid-term results with existing literature on peritrochanteric fracture management.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 30 patients with unstable peritrochanteric fractures treated with PF-LCP between 2015 and 2019.
• Exclusion of stable fractures, pediatric cases, open fractures, and polytrauma.
• Mid-term follow-up (12 months) assessing functional outcomes (Harris Hip Score) and radiological union (neck-shaft angle).

Main Results:

• Mean radiological union time was 12.5 ± 2 weeks; 24 patients achieved union within 10-15 weeks.
• Two cases of non-union required re-operation.
• Functional outcomes using Harris Hip Score showed 17 excellent, 7 good, 3 fair, and 3 poor results.

Conclusions:

• Anatomic, fixed-angle plates like PF-LCP yield significant functional and radiological outcomes for peritrochanteric fractures.
• PF-LCP is a recommended, stable alternative for treating unstable peritrochanteric femoral fractures.
• Fracture pattern and proximal femur extent influence implant choice, with PF-LCP offering good bone healing and biomechanical stability.