Introducing the Universal Periprosthetic Femur Fracture (UPFF) Classification: All Fractures Femur

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Peri-prosthetic femur fractures (PPFFs) are rising globally due to increased hip and knee arthroplasty rates.
• Fracture patterns are becoming more complex, involving younger patients and ipsilateral hip and knee implants.
• Existing classification systems are inadequate for current PPFF patterns, especially around revision implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, codified anthropometric, rule-based staging system for PPFFs.
• To standardize communication and data capture for PPFF treatment planning and research.
• To provide a comprehensive classification applicable to the entire femur.

Main Methods:

• Development of a codified, rule-based staging system for PPFFs.
• Incorporation of anthropometric variables and fracture patterns across the entire femur.
• System designed for standardization in clinical communication and research analysis.

Main Results:

• A new staging system has been developed to classify PPFFs comprehensively.
• The system aims to standardize communication and capture relevant variables for treatment and research.
• Formal reliability and clinical validation studies are currently underway.

Conclusions:

• A novel staging system addresses the limitations of prior classifications for PPFFs.
• This system offers a standardized approach for communication, treatment planning, and research.
• Ongoing validation studies will confirm the system's reliability and clinical utility.