Comparison between results of treatment of the Femoral Neck and Intertrochanteric Fractures : Focused on Mortality rate and Complications

Hwang, Chung Soo; Chung, Phil Hyun; Kang, Suk; Kim, Tae Hoon; Kim, Han Chul; Kim, Yong Soon

Abstract

The incidence of femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures has steadily increased with lengthening of the life span. It is well known that anatomical characteristics of femoral neck may evoke complications such as nonunion and avascular necrosis. And there are many problems in the treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures due to osteoporosis, unstable pattern of fracture and poor general condition in elderly patients. The author analyzed 56 cases(56 patients) of femoral neck fractures and 63 cases(61 patients) of femoral intertrochanteric fractures which we have been able to follow up more than 1 year from March 1991 to March 1997. The purpose of this study is 1) to analyze results of treatment, predisposing factors, complications and mortality rates, and so 2) to reduce the mortality rate and complication in these fractures. The results were as follows , 1. The difference in union time between both type of fractures was not significant. 2. The mortality rate during admission was 1.8% in femoral neck fractures and 6.3% in intertrochanteric fractures. 3. The mortality rate during 1 years was 3.6% in femoral neck fractures and 9.5% in femoral intertrochanteric fractures. 4. The predisposing factors associated with postoperative mortality rate were malnutrition. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, previous contralateral hip fracture, and operation within 3 days.