Management of Unstable Per-trochanteric Fracture in Old Patient by Primary Prosthetic Replacement

Abstract

Background: Peritrochanteric fractures are frequent of the proximal femur and represents about half of all proximal femur fractures. They are associated with disability, mainly in elder patients. Its management aiming to achieve immediate ambulation and to regain the pre-operative ambulation.

Aim and objectives; to evaluate and assess the functional and radiological outcomes of primary prosthetic replacement in old age cases of unstable per-trochanteric femur fractures,

Subjects and methods: The current work was an interrupted time series clinical trial (quasi experimental), included 15 patients suffering from unstable per-trochanteric fracture presented to us within a week of sustaining injury. They were clinically assessed and checked for fitness for surgery. Then and after surgery, they were followed by for functional outcome by Harris Hip Scale and any complications were recorded.

Results: Patients age ranged between 61 and 94 years. Females were more affected than males (80.0% vs 20.0%). Associated comorbidities were hypertension, diabetes and both conditions among 33.3%, 6.7% and 33.3%, successively. Falling was the commonest mode of injury (60.0%), and the left side was more affected than the right (60.0% vs 40.0%). Associated injuries were 1(6.7%) fracture surgical neck hummers, 1(6.7%) contralateral both bone leg fracture, 1(6.7%) had fracture mid shaft ulna. Regarding outcome, all cases were free from postoperative complications. However, blood loss was reported among 11(73.3%). Twelve (80%) patients had an excellent, 2 (13.3%) had good and 1(6.7%) had fair functional outcome. There was significant association between functional outcome and patients, gender, associated comorbid medical conditions, mode of trauma, side of trauma, or blood loss.

Conclusion: Primary prosthetic replacement is a valid surgical option in management of unstable trochanteric fractures in elderly. The main advantages are the safety, effectiveness and early full weight bearing.