Treatment of unstable pertrochanteric fracture of the femur using compression hip screw and plate with 6 or more holes

Lee, Jeong Woung; Lee, Chi Weon; Sun, Doo Hoon; Moon, Myung Sang

Abstract

PURPOSE
The objectives of this study are to observe and report the clinical results of the treatment of unstable pertrochanteric femur fracture extending into subtrochanter or shaft of the femur using compression hip screw and plate with 6 or more holes.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Between February 1993 and December 1997, 39 patients were treated surgically for unstable pertrochanteric femur fracture. 26 patients who have been followed up over twelve months were included in this study. Surgery was performed within 2 weeks after injury, except one patient who had combined head injury. The fracture was fixed internally with compression hip screw and plate with 6 or more holes, and additional fixations were also performed with Cable wire, interfragmentary screw and Knowles pin. The result was analyzed radiographically and clinically for blood loss, surgery time, bony union period and complication. Average estimated blood loss was 910 cc. Average surgery time was one hundred ten minutes. The complications occurred in 7 cases (27%) ; 1 nonunion, 2 screw loosening and 4 cases of superficial wound infection. There was no case of lag screw penetration to the femoral head or metal failure. The bony union was obtained at average 22 weeks.
CONCLUSION
With use of the compression hip screw and long plate with 6 or more holes for stable internal fixation, we obtained satisfactory results for unstable pertrochanteric femur fracture extending into subtrochanter or shaft of the femur.