Resection of the proximal femur raises several challenges to the orthopedic oncology surgeon. Among these is the re-establishment of the abductor mechanism that might impacts on hip function. Extent of tumor resection and surgeons’ preferences dictate the reconstruction method of the abductors. While some surgeons advocate the necessity of greater trochanter (GT) preservation whenever possible, others attempt direct soft tissues reattachment to the prosthesis. Sparse data in the literature evaluated the outcomes of greater trochanter fixation to the proximal femur megaprosthesis. This is a retrospective monocentric study. All patients who received a proximal femoral replacement after tumor resection between 2005 and 2021 with a minimum follow-up of three months were included. Patients were divided into two groups: (1) those with preserved GT reattached to the megaprosthesis and (2) those with direct or indirect (tenodesis to fascia lata) abductor muscles reattachment. Both groups were compared for surgical outcomes (dislocation and revision rates) and functional outcomes (Trendelenburg gait, use of walking-assistive device and abductor muscle strength). Additionally patients in group 1 were subdivided into patients who received GT reinsertion using a grip and cables and those who got direct GT reinsertion using suture materials and studied for GT displacement at three, six and 12 months. Time to cable rupture was recorded and analyzed through a survival analysis. Fifty-six patients were included in this study with a mean follow-up of 45 months (3-180). There were 23 patients with reinserted GT (group 1) and 33 patients with soft tissue repair (group 2). Revision rate was comparable between both groups(p=0.23); however, there were more dislocations in group 2 (0/23 vs 6/33; p=0.037). Functional outcomes were comparable, with 78% of patients in group 1 (18/23) and 73% of patients in group 2 (24/33) that displayed a Trendelenburg gait (p=0.76). In group 1, 70% (16/23) used walking aids compared to 79% of group 2 (27/33) (p=0.34). Mean abductor strength reached 2.7 in group 1 compared to 2.3 in group 2 (p=0.06). In group 1, 16 of the 23 patients had GT reinsertion with grip and cables. Median survival of cables for these 16 patients reached 13 months in our series. GT displacement reached a mean of two mm, three mm, and 11 mm respectively at three, six and 12 months of follow-up in patients with grip and cables compared to 12 mm, 24 mm and 26 mm respectively at the same follow-up intervals in patients with GT stand-alone suture reinsertion(p<0.05). Although GT preservation and reinsertion did not improve functional outcomes after proximal femur resection and reconstruction with a megaprosthesis, it was significantly associated with lower dislocation rate despite frequent cable failure and secondary GT migration. No cable or grip revision or removal was recorded. Significantly less displacement was observed in patients for whom GT reattachment used plate and cables rather than sutures only. Therefore we suggest that GT should be preserved and reattached whenever possible and that GT reinsertion benefits from strong materials such as grip and cables

Primary tuberculous bursitis was a relatively frequent manifestation of the disease before the antituberculosis drug era. Nowadays, it is considered a rare condition; it accounts for 1–2% of all musculoskeletal tuberculosis. The diagnosis and treatment of tuberculous bursitis may be delayed because the paucity of symptoms, its indolent clinical course and a low clinical suspicion. A 50-year-old patient with tuberculous trochanteric bursitis is reported. A 50-year-old woman was referred to our department to investigate a persistent pain in her left hip with 6 months duration. She was afebrile. The examination revealed a diffuse swelling from the buttock through the thigh, notable over the trochanter, but no sign of acute inflammation such as heat and redness. Her past medical and family histories revealed no previous tuberculosis. Plain films of the left hip showed a partial destruction of the margin of the greater trochanter, lytic foci in the underlying bone and a small focus of calcification in the adjacent soft tissues. A computed tomogram showed a soft tissue mass and demonstrated the relationship with the trochanter. We performed a needle biopsy which revealed granulomatous tissue. The patient underwent complete excision of the bursa and curettage of the surface of the trochanter. The postoperative course was uneventful. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated and definitive diagnosis of tuberculous bursitis was made. There was no evidence of concomitant tuberculosis at other musculoskeletal sites. The patient completed a treatment with rifampicin and etambutol for 6 months. There has been a complete resolution of the symptoms after 3 months and no recurrence after 4 years of follow-up. On plain radiograph the remodeling of the bone structure is clearly visible. Tuberculosis in the region of the greater trochanter is extremely rare. This rarity leads orthopedic surgeons to neglect this potential diagnosis, resulting in a delay in treatment. The pathogenesis of tuberculosis of the greater trochanteric area has not been well defined. The incidence of concomitant tuberculosis at other musculoskeletal sites, as well as the lung, is approximately 50%. Both hematogenous infection and propagation from other locations are reasonable explanations. Surgical intervention is mandatory for cure and the use of several antituberculosis agents is a standard approach

Background. Total hip arthroplasty requires proper sizing and placing of implants to ensure excellent outcomes and reduce complications. Calculation of femoral offset is an important consideration for optimal reconstruction of the hip biomechanics. Femoral offset can be measured on plain films or with flouroscopy if the x-ray beam is perpendicular to the plane determined by the angle between the neck axis and femoral shaft axis. This distance is evident only with the femur in the correct degree of rotation. Though pre-operative templating for femoral component size and offset is a regular accepted practice, a consistent method for assessing correct femoral rotation on the AP x-ray view has not been established. Purpose/Hypthesis. The purpose of the current study was to establish and validate a method for identifying radiographic landmarks on the proximal femur that would reliably indicate that the femur was in the proper degree of rotation to represent the true offset from the head center to shaft center. Methods. Lead markers were placed on areas of the greater trochanter followed by xrays. Markers placed on locations on the anterior and posterior greater trochanter duplicated reliable radiographic lines. Proximal femurs were dissected to the bone and rotated about their long axis from neutral rotation, defined at the point when the anterior and posterior aspects of the greater trochanter were aligned radiographically. Radiographs were taken at 2 degree increments in both internal and external rotation until 10 degrees, then again at 30 degrees. A custom script was used to calculate the femoral offset at these rotations at these locations. Descriptive analysis was performed to assess the relationship between rotation angle and femoral offset. Results. The mean femoral offset was observed to be 38.21 mm (SD 4.93, median 37.82, range 30.52–46.27). The mean rotation of max offset was −3.6° (SD 5.6, median −6, range −10 to +8). The average underestimation error (the difference between calculated offset at neutral rotation and observed maximum femoral offset) was 0.92 mm (median 0.74, range 0 to 2.07 mm). Conclusion. Alignment of the radiographic lines created by the anterior and posterior aspects of the greater trochanter is a reliable and accurate rotational positioning method for measuring femoral offset when using plain films or fluoroscopy. It is a feasible method that can be applied preoperatively and/or intraoperatively to optimize accuracy of femoral offset for THA procedures. For any tables or figures, please contact the authors directly

Background. Isolated fracture of the greater trochanter is an uncommon presentation of hip fracture. Traditional teaching has been to manage these injuries nonoperatively, but modern imaging techniques have made it possible to detect occult intertrochanteric extension of the fracture in up to 90% of cases. This study aims to review the investigation and management of greater trochanter fractures in a single major trauma centre. Methods. A retrospective review was completed of patients admitted with greater trochanter fractures. These were matched to cases with 2-part extracapsular fractures. Initial management and clinical outcome was established using electronic notes and radiographs. Mortality and length of stay was calculated for both groups. Results. 85 isolated greater trochanter fractures in 84 patients were identified from 2006–2017. 81/85 patients were treated non-operatively. 78 were mobilised full weight bearing. None required readmission or operation due to fracture displacement. 58 of these patients had cross-sectional imaging with MRI or CT and 15 of those scanned had intertrochanteric extension of the fracture. In the same time period, 998 2-part extra-capsular fractures were treated, using a sliding hip screw. Length of stay was shorter in patients with greater trochanter fractures than 2-part extracapsular fractures (median 7 days vs 14 days, P<0.0001). 30-day mortality was 11.9%, with no significant difference to patients with 2-part extracapsular fractures. Discussion. Cross sectional imaging rarely changed the treatment protocol for isolated greater trochanter fractures. The outcome following non-operative treatment is good even in the presence of occult fractures identified on CT or MRI. We advocate a treatment protocol that encourages early mobilisation and repeat plain radiographs if patients fail to progress. This will reduce unnecessary morbidity from fixation of stable occult fractures

BACKGROUND. Early dislocation is a foremost complication of total hip arthroplasty through a postero-lateral approach. The extra-articular impingement of the anterior part of the great trochanter with ileum bone, with or without soft tissue interposition is a well recognized but underestimated etiopathogenetic cause reported in literature. In this retrospective study through the assessment of clinical and radiographic follow-up at a minimum of six months, the effectiveness of an antero- longitudinal osteotomy of the great trochanter for early dislocation prevention is evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS. 209 patients (48.3% males and 51,7% females) underwent a total hip arthroplasty from June 2011 to September 2015, with surgery being performed by the same surgeon. A modified posterolateral approach was used according to the tissue-sparing criteria, in all the cases an anterior longitudinal osteotomy of the great trochanter has been performed at 90° to the antiversion angle of the implant and aligned posteriorly with the prosthesis. All the patients underwent a clinical and radiological follow up at one, three, and six months. RESULTS. In this study, only one patient reported dislocation of THA. One patient suffered from a wound infection which was subsequently treated with antibiotics and had complete remission. All patients demonstrated a fast recovery of ROM and walking, starting from pre-op Harris Hip Score 42.24pts and obtaining a score of 81.52pts at three months, and 92.03 at six months post-op. After surgery and during the follow up period, there were no trochanteric fractures detected. DISCUSSION. The correct positioning of the implants, the head diameter, offset, soft tissues repair, absence of impingement, and patients compliance are all elements that define the prosthetic stability. Literature shows and incidence of primary total hip arthroplasty dislocation between 0.80% to 10%. The incidence of dislocation reported in a preliminary study in our Institute is 0.48%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the trochanteric osteotomy. CONCLUSIONS. The osteotomy of the great trochanter is an effective surgical technique used to decrease the anterior impingement and early dislocation incidence. It is particularly effective on patients with good compliance and correctly implanted prosthetic components

Introduction: Although Metal wires and cables are popular tools to fix greater trochanter in revision THA, non union, pain and breakage are well known. For these situations, we used polyethylene tape which is occasionally applied for the spine surgery. The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical result of greater trochanter fixation using polyethylene tape in revision THA cases. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent revisions THA (six cases) and re-revision THA (two cases) (mean age at operation; seventy), with a minimum followup of two years. In revision cases, we attached greater trochanter to proximal femur fixing like figure eight with this tape. Migration of greater trochanter, union rate, pain and dislocation were evaluated in this study. Result: Bone union was achieved without migration and we did not experience any patients with pain. However migration of greater trochanter to cranially and anteriorly 3mm was observed in all re-revision cases. A patient dislocated twice after the re-revision. Discussion: We demonstrated that the polyethylene tape had several advantages used in greater trochanter fixation. Strength of the polyethylene tape has been reported as strong as the stainless cable. The polyethylene tape did not cause any adverse effects including pain and cheese cut phenomenon because of broad contact area with bone. The tape could be put directly on the stem, which is impossible with metal wires and cables. In addition, we do not expect any third body wear. We concluded that polyethylene tape applied for fixing greater trochanter in revision THA would be safe and effective

Purpose: There has only been one reported series of 30 cases of greater trochanter fracture during total hip arthroplasty and 26 of these were postoperative discoveries. We evaluated the frequency of this event and its postoperative consequences. Material and methods: Among our series of 1171 total hip arthroplasties performed between 1985 and 2000, 38 patients (3.2%) with greater trochanter fracture were identified (mean age 63 years). Osteosynthesis was performed in all cases. Thirty-one fractures were observed during primary arthroplasty and seven during revision procedures. Results: Eighteen patients had a favouring condition: corti-costeroid therapy,alcoholism,osteoporosis,diabetes,Paget, ablation of trochanteric material, periprosthetic osteolysis. The anterolateral approach was used in 22 and the posterolateral approach in 16. The fracture occurred along the access route in four (material removal or prefracture situtation), at removal of a previously implanted stem in two, and during implantation in 32. Twelve different stems were involved but a screwed stem was involved in 18 cases, i.e. 10% of all implanted screwed stems, while this complication only occurred in 1.2% of other implanted stems. Immediate weight bearing was authorised in 27 patients and deferred three weeks to three months in eleven. There were two deaths, so follow-up data was available for 36 hips: we observed anatomic bone healing in 22, deformed calluses in five and nonunion in nine, including two cases with infection (three revision procedures were required). Pain persisted at two months for eleven hips and limping persisted for ten (eight nonunions). Discussion: Prostheses with a large metaphyseal component were involved in the majority of the fractures. The surgical approach was not incriminated. When well stabilised, trochanter fractures healed well. Nonunion, often announced by persistent pain, is an important risk in patients with osteoporosis and a poorly stabilised fracture. Although all cases of nonunion were observed in patients with deferred weight bearing, this criterion is simply the expression of the surgeon’s apprehension in case of less than satisfactory fixation. Conclusion: Because of the deficient bone stock, which explains the higher rate of nonunion, fracture of the greater trochanter cannot be considered in the same light as a planned osteotomy. Prevention requires choosing a less cumbersome metaphyseal component in patients with favouring conditions. Osteosynthesis must be performed with particular care in order to obtain rapid healing and good functional outcome

Greater trochanter fractures after total hip replacement have been reported in up to 5% of cases. The outcomes are generally poor. Treatment options include non-operative care or surgical treatment with cerclage wires or a claw plate. We present a simple tension band technique for acute fractures with a single bony fracture fragment. We have not used the technique for chronic or comminuted fractures. Technique: 2.5mm k-wires are passed through the fragment and anterior and posterior to the femoral implant. Eighteen-gauge wire is passed through a drill hole in the femur distal to the fracture and around the k-wires in a figure eight. The patient is kept 50% weightbearing with no active abduction for 4 weeks. In four cases the fracture has gone on to healing. Patients have had a negative Trendelenburg sign without peritrochanteric pain. The tension band technique is familiar to surgeons and has been reliable

There is a paucity of available literature to guide the surgeon treating postoperative fractures of the greater trochanter after femoral component revision. Between 2009 and 2016, 133 patients underwent femoral component revision by the senior author utilizing a modular tapered fluted titanium stem. 17 patients died or had inadequate follow-up. Therefore, 116 patients were included in the final analysis. There were 58 males and 58 females with a mean age of 64 (range 23 to 91 years old). Clinical and radiographic data were analyzed for postoperative greater trochanteric fracture (GTfx). Mean clinical follow up was 21 months (range 3 to 77 mos). Age, BMI, preoperative diagnosis, comorbidities, reason for revision, use of Extended Trochanteric Osteotomy (ETO), fixation method of ETO, presence of prior hardware, post-operative trauma (falls), femoral component size and offset, change in leg length were analyzed to determine potential risk factors for postoperative GT fracture. There were 7 postoperative greater trochanteric fractures in 7 patients (6%). Of these, 1 occurred as a result of a postoperative fall, 1 occurred after dislocation, and 1 occurred after a fall with a subsequent dislocation. The mean time to diagnosis of the fracture was 10.7 weeks postoperatively (range one day to 37.4 weeks). 52 of 116 patients had their revision performed through an ETO. Of those, 6 had a postoperative fracture of the GT. The use of an ETO significantly increased the likelihood of postoperative GT fx (p=0.035). Regarding femoral component size, use of a longer proximal body (+10 or greater) was associated with an increased risk of postoperative GT fx (p=0.07). Two fractures were minimally (<1cm) or non-displaced and were treated non-operatively. Of these fractures, 1 united. The other fracture further displaced and resulted in recurrent instability. This was treated with excision of the fragment and a constrained liner. 5 fractures were displaced and were treated with ORIF. 3 were fixed with a cable grip device, 1 was plated, and 1 was treated with a cable grip device and a constrained liner. Of those treated with some form of ORIF, all 5 healed. Of those that underwent surgical fixation initially, 3 reported residual trochanteric pain and 1 patient had their hardware removed (trochanteric claw). 2 of these patients have a residual limp and require a cane for use as a gait aid. The patient treated non-surgically required a cane as did the patient that failed non-surgical treatment. Post-operative greater trochanteric fractures are a rare complication of femoral component revision. The use of an ETO significantly increased the rate of post of GTfx. The mean time to diagnosis of was 11 weeks. Displaced fractures of the greater trochanter treated with ORIF all healed, both cable grip devices and plates were effective. Residual limp requiring gait aids and residual trochanteric pain were common outcomes after fixation of these fractures despite successful union

Background. In total hip arthroplasty (THA), preservation of the short external rotator muscles are considered to be important because they contribute to joint stability and prevent postoperative dislocation. Recently, we reported that there are bony impressions on the greater trochanter that indicate the insertions of the short external rotator tendons. In this study, we reported a method to visualize the bony impressions using preoperative CT images, and evaluate the reliability and accuracy of this method. Methods. Thirty-three hips from 24 consecutive patients undergoing THA were enrolled. The mean age was 65.3 years. Preoperative diagnoses included hip osteoarthritis in 27 hips, rheumatoid arthritis in 4 hips, idiopathic osteonecrosis in 1 hip, femoral neck fracture in 1 hip. Preoperative CT of the hip region was obtained and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the greater trochanter was performed to visualize the bony impressions, that we called the obturator tendon attachment (OTA), indicating the attachment area of the obturator internus and externus muscles. Results. 3D reconstructed images of the greater trochanter were observed from medial side at 50 degrees of external hip rotation and 20 degrees of abduction (OTA view). Using OTA view, the bony impressions indicating the attachment area of the obturator internus and externus muscles can be identified in all hips. Conclusions. The bony impressions indicating the attachment area of the obturator internus and externus muscles can be visualized using preoperative 3D-CT. We considered that the findings in the present study could be helpful for surgery because the alignment of the short external rotator muscles can be estimated preoperatively and the extent of the damage to the OA during the rasping or reaming can be estimated

The aim of this study is to compare the clinical results of the Pin-Sleeve System (AI Wiring System; AIWS) with the Dall-Miles Cable Grip System (DMCGS) for reattachment after dissection of the greater trochanter in hip arthroplasty. The DMCGS was used in 33 cases 35 hips from 1994 to 1998 and AIWS in 40 cases 42 hips from 1998 to 2001. The age at operation was 61.3 years (24 to 85 years) in the DMCGS group and 67 years (24 to 86 years) in the AIWS group. The postoperative follow-up period was 24 months (4 months to 54 months) in the DMCGS group and 30 months (11 months to 42 months) in the AIWS group. Bone union failure of the great trochanter occurred in the DMCGS group eight hips (22.9%) and AIWS group five hips (11.9%). The DMCGS group four hips (11.4%) had broken cables, while not even one case of the AIWS group had them (p< 0.05). Fragments from the cable were found in the DMCGS group seven hips (20%) and AIWS group two hips (4.8%). Bone resorption around the cable, grip or sleeve occurred in the DMCGS group 19 hips (54.3%) and AIWS group five hips (11.9%) (p< 0.05). Clinically, the DMCGS group 13 hips (37.1%) and AIWS group seven hips (16.7%) had dysphoria at the greater trochanter; the DMCGS group 17 hips (48.6%) and AIWS group eight hips (19%) had pain at the greater trochanter in the recumbent position with the affected side down (p< 0.05); the DMCGS group 13 hips (37.1%) and AIWS group six hips (14.3%) had pain on exertion. The AIWS is considered to be a useful implant for reattachment of the greater trochanter compared with the DMCGS

Aims: The purpose of this retrospective study was to report on the treatment of migrated ununited greater trochanter following total hip arthroplasty. Methods: Between January 1986 and December 1999, 72 non-unions of the greater trochanter in 71 patients were treated using a trochanteric claw plate. The mean age of the patients was 66 ± 11 years. The average time to re-operation was 8 months. Fixation of the non-united greater trochanter was performed using a claw plate only in 47 hips, and the association of frontal wires with a claw plate in the remaining 25 hips. The main criterion for evaluation was the consolidation of the greater trochanter judged as follows: bony consolidation (no pain, no Trendelenboug gait, radiologic fusion); fibrous consolidation (moderate pain, no Trendelenboug gait, radiologic fusion difficult to assess); and non-union (Trendelenboug gait and/or absence of radiologic fusion). Results: The average follow-up of the series was 4 years (1 to 14 years). The mean d’Aubigné score significantly increased from 13.5 preoperatively to 15.9 at last follow-up (paired signs test, p < 0.0001). Bony consolidation was obtained in 51 hips, fibrous in 9, whereas repeat non-union occurred in 12. The only predictive factor for union was the use frontal wires in association with a claw plate that provided 87.5% of unions and no failure (Chi square test, p = 0.006). Conclusions: This study indicated that non-union of the greater trochanter following total hip arthroplasty can be successfully treated with frontal wires in conjunction with a trochanteric claw plate

Purpose: Greater trochanter reattachment is frequently accomplished using cable grip type systems. There is a relatively high failure rate for these systems, the mechanisms of which are unclear. One possible source of instability could be femoral neck cut location. Another concern is the effect of variability in cable tension. The objective is to create a femur implant model which allows for variation in cable tension, common muscle forces and the placement of the femoral neck cut in order to analyse trochanter fragment fixation. Method: A finite element model (FEM) of a femur with simulated greater trochanter osteotomy (30°) was combined with the femoral component of a hip prosthesis and a greater trochanter reattachment system with 4 cables (Cable-Ready®, Zimmer). A total of 18 simulations were modeled in a full factorial design using three independent variables; cable tightening (178N, 356 N and 534 N), muscle forces (rest, walking and stair climbing) and femoral neck cut (10 mm and 15 mm above the lesser trochanter). Displacement of the fragment, in terms of both gap and shear components, as well, stress in the bone were investigated. Results: The location of the femoral neck cut reduced contact surface area by 20% and had the largest influence on displacement (0.24 mm). Pivoting of the fragment was observed with a maximum gap (0.38 mm) and maximum total displacement (0.41 mm) at the bottom of the fragment. This was observed during stair climbing, while the cables were tightened to 177.9 N and with the femoral neck cut at 10 mm. Increased tightening of the cables provided no significant reduction in fragment displacement. However, higher cable tension significantly increased the stress in the bone (8 MPa and 26 MPa for cable tension of 178 N and 534 N respectively). Conclusion: Placement of the femoral neck cut closer to the lesser trochanter significantly increased fragment displacement. Preservation of the contact surface area is recommended. Excessive cable tightening did not reduce fragment movement and only exacerbated bone stress. Caution must be used to not over tighten the cables. This model can be used to test and compare the performance of new implant designs

Background. In total hip arthroplasty (THA), the importance of preserving muscle is widely recognized. It is important to preserve the short external rotator muscles because they contribute to joint stability and prevent postoperative dislocation. However, despite careful capsular release and femoral rasping, damage to the short external rotator muscles may occur. The Optymis Shot Stem preserves more bone and surrounding tissue than does a traditional primary stem. We investigated the usefulness of the stem in terms of the extent of preservation of the tendon attachment on the greater trochanter. Method. In this study, we enrolled 31 consecutive patients (39 hips; 6 males, 25 females) who underwent THA. Simultaneous bilateral THA was performed in 8 patients. The patients’ mean age was 56.1 years. Diagnoses included developmental dysplasia in 35 hips (Crowe group 1: 31 hips, group 2: 4 hips), and sequel of Perthes disease in 4 hips. All THAs were performed via the direct anterior approach without traction tables. The femoral procedure was performed with the hip hyperextended, and posterior capsular release was performed if the femoral procedure became technically difficult. We compared the following among patients: the operative time, intraoperative blood loss, length of hospital stay, rate of posterior capsular release, postoperative radiographic findings, WOMAC score before and after surgery, and any complications. Results. The mean operative time was 42.0 ± 8.9 min, the mean intraoperative blood loss was 308 ± 196 g, and the mean hospital stay was 6.7 ± 1.3 days. Posterior capsular release was performed in 17 hips [44%; 10 hips (32%) in Crowe group 1, 8 hips (88%) for other diagnoses]. The total WOMAC score improved significantly from 42.4 points preoperatively to 11.2 points at 3 months preoperatively. A postoperative stem subsidence ≥3 mm was observed in 1 hip (2.6%), whereas postoperative dislocation, intra- and postoperative periprosthetic fracture, and thigh pain were not observed. Conclusions. The Optymis Short Stem could be placed without performing posterior capsular release in 68% of patients with Crowe group 1 developmental dysplasia. We therefore consider the stem as useful for preserving the tendon attachment on the greater trochanter

Introduction: Isolated greater trochanter fractures gained clinical importance because of the possibility of their inter-trochanteric extension. Aim: To assess whether the direction and the extent of the fracture measured on plain radiographs could be used to predict the inter-trochanteric extension. Materials and Methods: We reviewed plain radiographs and MRI scans of 24 patients who sustained isolated greater trochanter fractures between year 2003 and 2006. We considered two parameters. extent of fracture in percentage along the intertrochanteric line. angle of the fracture line. Both these parameters were measured on a plain anteroposterior radiograph. To measure the length of fracture we have drawn a straight line along the medial border of femoral shaft extending proximally in to the pelvis. Then we measured the distance between the most superior point of the fracture line on the lateral cortex and the midpoint of lesser trochanter on the first line. Then we measured the length of the fracture starting from the most superior point on the lateral cortex. We estimated the percentage of this fracture length in relation to line. To estimate the angle, again we have drawn a straight line along the medial border of femoral shaft extending proximally in to the pelvis. We have drawn another line in the direction of fracture staring from most superior point of fracture on the lateral cortex joining the first line. We measured the angle between these two lines (Fig 2). We used our Hospital PACS system to measure the angles and the length of the fracture. Results: Out of 24 isolated greater trochanteric fractures as diagnosed by plain radiographs, MRI scans revealed intertrochanteric extension in nine (37.5%). On the plain anteroposterior radiograph, the mean angle of the fracture in those with MRI proven intertrochanteric extension was 34º (range 20º–45º). In those with no intertrochanteric extension on MRI scan, the mean angle was 55º (Range 25º–125º). The mean percentage of length of fracture across the intertrochanteric line was 62% (47%–73%) and 40% (27%–62%) respectively. All the fractures with MRI proven intertrochanteric extension had a fracture angle of < 45º and the percentage of fracture length of > 40%. All the 15 fractures with fracture angle more than 45º did not show intertrochanteric extension on MRI scan. Conclusions: We conclude that those isolated greater trochanteric fractures, with fracture angle of more than 45 º are unlikely to have an intertrochanteric extension. These patients could be mobilised without further MRI scans. Those fractures which fulfil the plain radiographic criteria of extension of more than 40% and fracture angle between 20º–40º are likely to show inter trochanteric extension. These patients need further clinical assessment and MRI scans to confirm the intertrochanteric extension

Introduction: The use of intramedullary nailing (IMHS) has increased at the expense of the dynamic hip screw (DHS), although the outcome is not different in the studies of pertrochanteric fractures (PTF), known as AO/OTA type 31A1-2 fractures with a preoperative intact lateral femoral wall. We therefore investigated the two implants in the subgroup of PTF with a fractured greater trochanter. Materials and Methods: Six hundred thirty-five consecutive patients with PTF fixated by a short IMHS or by a DHS mounted on a four hole lateral plate were prospectively included between 2002 and 2008. The fractures were preoperatively classified according to AO/OTA classification system, including status of the greater and lesser trochanter. The integrity of the lateral femoral wall, fracture reduction and implant positioning were assessed postoperatively. Reoperations due to technical failures were recorded for one year. Results: Among the 311 patients sustaining a PTF with a fractured greater trochanter, 4% (6/158) operated with an IMHS were reoperated compared to 14% (22/153) with a DHS (p=0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis combining demographic and biomechanical parameters showed the IMHS to have a lower rate of reoperation (p=0.002). During the operative procedure, the lateral femoral wall was fractured in 6% (9/158) of patients, in which an IMHS was performed versus 28% (42/153) operated with a DHS (p< 0.001). Among the DHS, a fractured lateral femoral wall was confirmed to be a predictor of a reoperation (31% (13/42) of patients with a fractured lateral femoral wall versus 8% (9/111) with an intact lateral femoral wall, p< 0.001). As in other studies, the different reoperation rate would have been overseen in the main group of AO/ OTA type 31A1-2 PTF fractures (4% (6/164) IMHS versus 6% (30/471) DHS, p=0.196). Conclusion: The IMHS seems to have a lower reoperation rate than the DHS in the subgroup of PTF with a fractured greater trochanter. In contrast to the DHS, the IMHS presumably keeps the integrity of the lateral femoral wall. In future studies, PTF should be divided into subgroups

Purpose: The management of comminuted inter trochanteric fracture are a serious and difficult problem. The proper selection of fixation device is must to avoid significant complication in the management of this common fracture. The use of contoured side plate screw attached to the sliding screw plate anchors the comminuted fragments thus gives better stability, compression, early mobility and bony union to this fracture where other implant fails. Material and method: Since 1997 to 2000, 60 comminuted inter trochanteric fracture- age of 67yrs (46–91year) were treated by close/open reduction and internal fixation with 135 dynamic hip screw plate +side screw plate. The side plate is a narrow D.C.P. (4/5 hole) which is contoured to the fl are of greater trochanter proximally and is attached to the sliding screw plate. The proximal holes of side plate hold the comminuted fragment of greater trochanter with cancellous screw above the sliding hip screw The patient were encouraged to walk on 2nd post operative day with support to start with partial weight bearing followed by weight bearing at 4 wk. Result: On an average 12-week (8–16 wk) all the Tranzo grade II/ III fracture went into union . There was lengthening of 2.5cm (2–5 cm) in 15 cases due to valgus reduction which reduced to 1.5 cm (2–3cm) at end of 6 months. Backing up of the side plate screw and sliding hip screw was seen in 40% of case (24) (mainly in poor bone stock and valgus reduction case). Conclusion: The side plate/ screw with sliding hip screw stables buttress for comminuted trochanter fragments gives compression, prevent rotation and better bony union the piece. This implant is an extended arm for holding fragment. The major trochanteric fracture fragment are held by side plate to sliding screw plate thus gives stability to the device, better bony contact thus early mobility and union. The sliding screw device with side plate is “forgiving” it allows subsequent displacement to achieve stability in comminuted fracture. The success of the implant assembly rest on the ability of slide and hold the fragment to give stability and bony union. This method gives an option of open reduction and bone grafting

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) allows patients to return to an active lifestyle. Unfortunately one of the more common complications of cementless THA is a fracture of the greater trochanter (GT) or the calcar. These may compromise the outcomes of THA, but there are no large studies looking into this hypothesis. Between September 1998 and August 2005 the Hamilton Arthroplasty group performed 2282 THA operations. Demographic and outcome data on these patients was collected and tabulated in a prospective database. Radiographs were available on a picture archiving system for 1075 of the patients, 85% of which were primary THAs. GT and calcar fractures were identified. Statistical comparisons on the normal distributed outcome data were made using the Student’s T-test comparing repaired and missed fractures. A total of 60 GT fractures were found in the review of 1075 radiographs, giving an incidence of 5.6%. This included 19 isolated GT fractures and 10 GT fractures with associated calcar fractures that were found in primary hip arthroplasties, 48% of the total. Revision hip surgeries had 14 isolated GT fractures and 17 GT fractures with associated calcar fracture. We found that 23 (40%) of all GT fractures were missed intra-operatively and did not receive any fixation. All calcar fractures were noted and repaired, even if the associated GT fracture was not. 106 isolated calcar fractures were noted, 10% of all arthroplasties, only one of which did not receive fixation. Of this, 85 (80%) were from primary total hip arthroplasty and 21 (20%) from revision hip arthroplasty. Evaluation of the outcome data showed no significant difference between repaired and missed GT fractures. Reported outcomes compared favourably with the average for all THA in that time period. Adoption of cementless total hip arthroplasty in North America undoubtedly increases the rate of GT and calcar fractures. Most calcar fractures were noted and fixed but only 50% of GT fractures were discovered intraoperatively, an area of potential improvement. Greater trochanter and recognized calcar fractures may not have long-term detrimental effects

The iliopsoas is considered a major deforming force causing hip flexion deformity in children with cerebral palsy. Although iliopsoas release at the lesser trochanter is thought by many clinicians to cause excessive hip flexor weakness, we believe that it does not produce iatrogenic hip flexion weakness. We were unable to find a study in the literature that objectively studied this issue. Included in the study were 25 patients, all ambulators with cerebral palsy (any type). They underwent iliopsoas release at the lesser trochanter and multiple surgeries (soft tissue with or without bony procedures). Mean age at surgery was 11.4 years. Motion analysis was performed to all patients prior to surgery and one year post-op. Hip and knee range of motion was improved with out significant decrease in hip flexion power. Maximum hip extension improved, no change in maximum and total flexion power generation was found. As expected, hip range of motion was improved significantly. We proved that when releasing the iliopsoas at the lesser trochanter, the change in power generation is statistically insignificant, as shown by maximum and total hip power generation in swing phase

Aim: To evaluate the long term effect of Distal transfer of the greater trochanter in Perthes’ disease. Patients and methods: Twelve patients (thirteen hip joints, 10 males and 2 females) who suffered from Perthes’ Disease were treated by distal transfer of the greater trochanter (DTT). The operation was performed because of progressive shortening of the articulo-trochanteric distance accompanied by signs of insufficiency of the hip abductors. Total or near total femoral head involvement was found in all the patients except for one of them. Follow up period was 28 years (21–35). Mean age at diagnosis of Perthes’ was 7 years (4–11). Patient were studied in 1992 and reviewed again 13 years later, using the Harris hip score, short form 36 (SF36), physical examination and A-P X-rays. Results: Not one of the patients underwent a total hip arthroplasty. Mean Harris hip score is 80 (range 54–100, 4 patients under 70 score). Mean SF36 score was 71 (range 30–94) and was correlated to the Harris score. Three of the patients were working in a physically demanding profession. The rest were office workers. Two of them chose non strenuous type of work due to the hip condition. Limb length discrepancy was 1.7 cm short on the operated side (range 0–3) and correlated with Trendelenburg sign (4 patients with positive sign). Femoral head sphericity according to Stulberg classification was good in 5 patients (grades 1–2), fair in 3 patients (grade 3) and poor in 4 patients (grade 4–5). Head sphericity was not correlated to age at diagnosis, Harris score, SF36 score or level of hip pain. Conclusions: Long term outcome are surprisingly good in those patients, considering the degree of head involvement, advanced age at diagnosis and severity of disease which necessitated high degree of varus osteotomy and hence trochanter transfer