Selection of internal fixation for intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To compare the clinical efficacy of extramedullary fixation system,intramedullary fixation system and hip arthroplasty in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly.MethodsThe retrospective study involved 184 patients treated between January 2007 and January 2011,which were assigned to dynamic hip screw (DHS) group (n =99),locking plate group (n =19 ),intramedullary fixation group (n =25) and joint replacement group (n =41 ).There were 80 males and 104 females,at age range of 60-99 years,mean (72.4 ± 3.9) years.According to the modified Evan classification,the fractures included type Ⅰ A in 20 patients,type Ⅰ B in 21,type Ⅱ in 75 and type Ⅲ in 68.The preoperative conditions,postoperative weight-bearing time,fracture heating time,hip function and complications were comparatively studied among four groups.ResultsThe patients were followed up for 7-22 months (mean 12 months).The four groups showed no significant differences regarding the gender,age,fracture types and medical complications.The postoperative weight-bearing time of the joint replacement group was significantly shorter than that of the other three groups,with statistical significance.The fracture healing time was insignificantly different among the four groups.The postoperative complications were found in 24 patients (13％),including 11 patients in the DHS group,six in the locking plate group,five in the intramedullary fixation group and two in the joint replacement group.Harris score was the highest in the joint replacement group,with statistical significance in comparison with the other three groups. ConclusionsIntramedullary fixation should be the treatment of choice for the patients with unstable,or severe osteoporosis fractures and with intolerance of joint replacement.Artificial bipolar femoral head replacement is suitable for the elderly patients with unstable or severe osteoporosis fractures,capability of walk or tolerance of operation.