Percutaneous pinning in undisplaced subcapital femoral neck fractures

Three hundred and five undisplaced subcapital femoral neck fractures managed by pinning in situ with Knowles' pins were evaluated to elucidate the role and effect of such treatment. The protocol of management and follow up, and evaluation, both radiographically and functionally, were set up prospectively. The duration from injury to management was 3.5 (1-14) days, the operation time was 22 (9-48) min and most of the patients were discharged without hospitalization. The follow-up period was 75 (28-136) months. The final results showed 282 (92.5 per cent) fractures united without complications (mean union time: 20 weeks), 14 (4.6 per cent) limbs with non-union, and 9 (2.9 per cent) had implant problems. Twenty-two (7.2 per cent) developed avascular necrosis after union. Percutaneous pinning of undisplaced subcapital femoral neck fractures as day cases is a simple, safe, effective and economic method.