Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA): Comparison Between Osteosynthesis and Revision

Abstract

Background Periprosthetic fractures are challenging complication of hip arthroplasty and a rare injury, but their incidence is increasing. The surgical treatment is demanding to achieve early mobilization and avoid the complications of prolonged recumbency. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of surgical treatment in periprosthetic femoral fractures of hip arthroplasty, making a comparison between implant revision and reduction and internal fixation of the fracture.Methods Authors retrospectively reviewed a series of 117 patients with total hip arthroplasty treated for periprosthetic femur fractures in the period between January 2013 and March 2018 at a single tertiary referral center. We collected the data of 70 patients who satisfied inclusion criteria. The fractures were classified according to the Unified Classification System (UCS) and randomized in two groups: reduction and internal fixation (G1) or revision arthroplasty (G2). Clinical outcomes were assessed with Oxford Hip Score post and pre-surgery, Barthel Score in relation to CIRS score (Cumulative illness rating scale), the type of fracture and post-operative complications with a minimum follow up of one year.Results Nominal univariable statistical analysis revealed significantly results concerning the difference between the post and pre-operative Oxford Hip Score (D Oxford) with type of treatment (p=0,008) and with the CIRS score (p=0,048). Moreover, we observed a strong significant relationship between type of treatment and type of fracture (P=0,0001). Multivariable analyses revealed that CIRS score was independently associated with Oxford Score improvement after surgery (P=0,024).Conclusions Authors reported how the surgical revision has a better functional outcome in B2 type of fracture than B1 or C, but the chosen treatment should be related to surgeon’s experience and patient’s comorbidities and a multidisciplinary team.