The ideal operative treatment of displaced sub capital femoral fractures in the elderly is controversial. Recently, randomised controlled trials have suggested a better outcome with the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) to treat displaced intra capsular fractures of the femur for elderly patients in good health. More recently the concept of dual mobility cups is being promoted to avoid dislocations in this cohort of patients. However, overall there is limited evidence to support the choice between different types of arthroplasty. Dislocation remains a main concern with THA, especially when a posterior approach is used. We analysed the outcome of 115 primary THR (112 cements and 3 uncemented) THR using a posterior approach with soft tissue repair in active elderly patients presenting with displaced intra capsular femoral neck fractures. Size 28 mm head was used in 108 and a size 32 mm head in the rest. All surgery was performed by specialist hip surgeons. Satisfactory results were noted in terms of pain control, return to pre-morbid activity and radiological evidence of bone implant osteo-integration. The 30-day mortality was nil. There were two dislocations and only one needed revision surgery due to recurrent dislocation. In conclusion, with optimal patient selection, THA seems to provide a good functional outcome and pain relief in the management of displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures. Excellent outcome can be achieved when done well using the standard cemented THR and with 28mm head. A good soft tissue repair and a specialist hip surgeon is preferable

Long-term prospective RCT comparing hemiarthroplasty (HEMI) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) for the treatment of intracapsular neck of femur fracture. 81 previously mobile, independent, orientated patients were randomised to receive THA or HEMI after sustaining a displaced neck of femur fracture. Patients were followed up with radiographs, Oxford hip score (OHS), SF-36 scores and their walking distance. At a mean follow up of 8.7 years, overall mortality following THA was 32.5% compared to 51.2% following HEMI (p=0.09). Following THA, patients died after a mean of 63.6 months compared to 45 months following HEMI (p=0.093). Patients with THA walked further and had better physical function. No HEMIs dislocated but three (7.5%) THAs did. Four (9.8%) HEMI patients were revised to THA, but only one (2.5%) THA required revision. All surviving HEMI patients had acetabular erosion and all surviving THA patients had wear of the cemented polyethylene cup. Patients with THA have better function in the medium-term and survive longer

The study aims to compare the short-term results of cemented and cementless total hip arthroplasty {THA} in active patients > 80 years of age with femoral neck fractures. Sixty two consecutive patients underwent THA during the study period {cemented -31 and cementless -31}. The mean age was 84 years {81–94 years}. Patients in both groups were comparable in their preoperative variables. Functional and radiological assessments were carried out using validated outcome measures. Complications were recorded. 51 patients were available for final analysis after accounting for deaths and cases lost in follow up. Of the 51 patients, 25 {49%} regained their pre-injury mobility status and 36 {70%} were community ambulant. Cementless THA was associated with significantly less surgical time, blood loss, transfusion rates and hospital stay. The overall mortality rates, complications, functional and radiological results were similar in both groups though the number of deaths in the perioperative period were significantly high in patients undergoing cemented THA. Satisfactory improvement in function with low reoperation rates can be achieved irrespective of the technique used. Complication rates are higher when compared to younger patients undergoing the procedure. Risks and benefits should be carefully assessed and explained before subjecting these patients to THA

Abstract. INTRODUCTION. Fracture neck of femur is aptly called as “the fracture of necessity” owing to the various factors responsible for its non-union. Pauwel's inter-trochantric valgus osteotomy is a useful approach to deal with such fractures. AIM. The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome of valgus osteotomy in treatment of neglected and non-union fracture neck of femur using Harris Hip Scoring system (HHS). MATERIAL AND METHODS. This observational study included 25 patients of the age between 25 years and 50 years with more than 3 weeks since injury and the patients with failed primary fixation. Valgus osteotomy using120° double angled blade plate was done. The patients were followed up till one year. The patients' functional outcome was evaluated with pre-operative and post-operative Harris Hip Score (HHS) at 6 months and one year. RESULTS. Outcome was excellent in 14 patients (HHS>90), good in 8 patients (HHS between 80–90) and fair in one patient (HHS=75.6). Two patients ended up in non-union with blade cut out. The mean HHS at the end of one year was 89.18 + 7.822. The mean change in HHS values pre-operatively and one year post-operatively came out to be 69.58 + 20.032. CONCLUSION. We conclude that for the patients under 50 years of age with neglected fracture of the femoral neck, the Pauwel's osteotomy produces many good results

Introduction. Osteogenesis imperfect (OI) is a geno- and phenotypically heterogeneous group of congenital collagen disorders characterized by fragility and microfractures resulting in long bone deformities. OI can lead to progressive femoral coxa vara from bone and muscular imbalance and continuous microfracture about the proximal femur. If left untreated, patients develop Trendelenburg gait, leg length discrepancy, further stress fracture and acute fracture at the apex of the deformity, impingement and hip joint degeneration. In the OI patient, femoral coxa vara cannot be treated in isolation and consideration must be given to protecting the whole bone with the primary goal of verticalization and improved biomechanical stability to allow early loading, safe standing, re-orientation of the physis and avoidance of untreated sequelae. Implant constructs should therefore be designed to accommodate and protect the whole bone. The normal paediatric femoral neck shaft angle (FNSA) ranges from 135 to 145 degrees. In OI the progressive pathomechanical changes result in FNSA of significantly less than 120 degrees and decreased Hilgenreiner epiphyseal angles (HEA). Proximal femoral valgus osteotomy is considered the standard surgical treatment for coxa vara and multiple surgical techniques have been described, each with their associated complications. In this paper we present the novel technique of controlling femoral version and coronal alignment using a tubular plate and long bone protection with the use of teleoscoping rods. Methodology. After the decision to operate had been made, a CT scan of the femur was performed. A 1:1 scale 3D printed model (AXIAL3D, Belfast, UK) was made from the CT scan to allow for accurate implant templating and osteotomy planning. In all cases a subtrochanteric osteotomy was performed and fixed using a pre-bent 3.5 mm 1/3 tubular plate. The plate was bent to allow one end to be inserted into the proximal femur to act as a blade. A channel into the femoral neck was opened using a flat osteotome. The plate was then tapped into the femoral neck to the predetermined position. The final position needed to allow one of the plate holes to accommodate the growing rod. This had to be determined pre operatively using the 3D printed model and the implants. The femoral canal was reamed, and the growing rod was placed in the femur, passing through the hole in the plate to create a construct that could effectively protect both the femoral neck and the full length of the shaft. The distal part of the plate was then fixed to the shaft using eccentric screws around the nail to complete the construct. Results. Three children ages 5,8 and 13 underwent the procedure. Five coxa vara femurs have undergone this technique with follow-up out to 62 months (41–85 months) from surgery. Improvements in the femoral neck shaft angle (FNSA) were av. 18. o. (10–38. o. ) with pre-op coxa vara FNSA av. 99. o. (range 87–114. o. ) and final FNSA 117. o. (105–125. o. ). Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle was improved by av. 29. o. (2–58. o. ). However only one hip was restored to <25. o. In the initial technique employed for 3 hips, the plates were left short in the neck to avoid damaging the physis. This resulted in 2 of 3 hips fracturing through the femoral neck above the plate at approximately 1 year. There were revisions of the 3 hips to longer plates to prevent intra-capsular stress riser. All osteotomies united and both intracapsular fractures healed. No further fractures have occurred within the protected femurs and no other repeat operations have been required. Conclusions. Surgical correction of the OI coxa vara hip is complex. Bone mineral density, multiplanar deformity, a desire to maintain physeal growth and protection of the whole bone all play a role in the surgeon's decision making process. Following modifications, this technique demonstrates a novel method in planning and control of multiplanar proximal femoral deformity, resulting in restoration of the FNSA to a more appropriate anatomical alignment, preventing long bone fracture and improved femoral verticalization in the medium term follow-up

Purpose. Despite the increasing interest and subsequent published literature on hip resurfacing arthroplasty, little is known about the prevalence of its complications and in particular the less common modes of failure. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of failure of hip resurfacing arthroplasty and to analyse the reasons for it. Method. From a multi-surgeon series (141 surgeons) of 5000 Bimingham hip resurfacings we have analysed the modes, prevalence, gender differences and times to failure of any hip requiring revision surgery. Results. To date 182 hips have been revised (3.6%). The most common cause for revision was a fracture of the neck of the femur (54 hips, prevalence 1.1%), followed by loosening of the acetabular component (32 hips, 0.6%), collapse of the femoral head/avascular necrosis (30 hips, 0.6%), loosening of the femoral component (19 hips, 0.4%), infection (17 hips, 0.3%), pain with aseptic lymphocytic vascular and associated lesions (ALVAL)/metallosis (15 hips, 0.3%), loosening of both components (5 hips, 0.1%) dislocation (5 hips, 0.1%) and malposition of the acetabular component (3 hips, 0.1%). In two cases the cause of failure was unknown. Comparing men with women, we found the prevalence of revision to be significantly higher in women (women = 5.7%; men = 2.6%. p<0.001). When analysing the individual modes of failure we found women to have significantly more revisions for loosening of the acetabular component, dislocation, infection and pain/ALVAL/metallosis (p<0.001, p=0.004, p=0.008, p=0.01 respectively). The mean time to failure was 2.9 years (0.003 to 11.0) for all causes, with revisions for fracture of the neck of the femur occurring earlier than other causes (mean 1.5 years, 0.02 to 11.0). There was a significantly shorter time to failure in men (mean 2.1 years, 0.4 to 8.7) compared with women (mean 3.6 years, 0.003 to 11.0) (p<0.001). Conclusion. Hip resurfacing has its own unique set of complications, including fracture of the neck of the femur. It is important to understand the prevalence of complications as well as the risk factors in order to appropriately select patients and adequately inform them prior to hip resurfacing arthroplasty

Introduction. Intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck in young adults are a surgical emergency. Recent literature reviews have questioned whether the timing of surgery reduces the incidence of avascular necrosis, non-union and revision. A study was performed to determine how many patients met a 12-hour target for operative fixation with this injury. Possible sources of delay to theatre were reviewed. Methods. A Fractures Outcomes Research Database was used to identify patients aged 18–64 who were admitted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast between 1. st. Jan 2008 and 31. st. Dec 2009. Intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck which were treated with a 2-hole dynamic hip screw were included. Time of injury, time of presentation in A&E, time of admission to fracture ward, operation time, demographic data, and the mechanism of injury were extracted from the database. Results. 81 patients were identified who met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 56 years (range 26–64y). 64 injuries were low energy. 16 patients were alcoholics, 34 smoked cigarettes. 31 of 81 operations were performed within 12 hours of the injury. Of the delayed 50 patients, 25 sustained their injury between 1700–2359. 51 of 81 operations were performed on daytime lists (0900–1659), 23 in the evening (1700–2359) and 7 overnight (0000–0859). Median time from injury to presentation at A&E was 1 hour 39 minutes. Time from A&E presentation to ward admission was 4 hours. Time from ward admission to surgery was 8 hours 13 minutes. Conclusions. The time from ward admission to arrival in theatre accounted for the greatest delay, and is modifiable. Injuries which occur in the evening are often operated on the next day. The majority of the patients had low energy injuries, and a minority smoke cigarettes and abuse alcohol. The long-term implications of this delay will require further work

Pathologic fractures about the hip are an uncommon, but increasingly prevalent, clinical scenario encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. These fractures about the hip usually necessitate operative management. Life expectancy must be taken into account in management, but if survivorship is greater than 1 month, operative intervention is indicated. Determination must be made prior to operative management if the lesion is a solitary or metastatic lesion. Imaging of the entire femur is necessary to determine if there are other lesions present. Bone lesions that have a large size, permeative appearance, soft tissue mass, and rapid growth are all characteristics that suggest an aggressive lesion. Biopsy of the lesion in coordination with the operative surgeon should be conducted if the primary tumor is unknown. Metastatic disease is much more common than primary tumors in the adult population. Many metastatic fractures in the intertrochanteric region, and all fractures in the femoral neck and head are an indication for hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty. Cemented femoral implants are generally indicated. This allows immediate weight bearing in a bone with compromised bone stock, thus reducing the risk of peri-operative fractures. Additionally, patients are often treated with radiation and/or chemotherapy, which may prevent proper osseointegration of an ingrowth femoral component. Highly porous ingrowth shells have been shown to provide reliable and durable fixation even in these situations. Management of a periacetabular pathologic fracture, particularly resulting in a pelvic discontinuity is a particularly challenging situation. Use of a highly porous acetabular component combined with an acetabular cage, a custom acetabular component, a cemented Harrington technique, or a primary acetabular reconstruction cage may be utilised. Patients with neoplastic disease are often at risk for infection and thromboembolic disease both from the disease and treatment. Pre-operative evaluation of nutrition status by measuring albumin and pre-albumin will give the surgeon insight. Additionally, dehydration is commonly seen in cancer patients, and adequate pre-operative optimization of fluids and electrolytes may reduce peri-operative complications from other organ systems

Although the vast majority of fractures of the proximal femur will heal with well-done internal fixation, occasionally failure of fixation will occur. Having effective salvage options is important to restore function and minimise complications. In general, it is logical to separate salvage options into those for fractures of the femoral neck, and those for fractures of the intertrochanteric region. Additionally, patient age and remaining bone stock should be considered. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: All efforts are focused on preserving the native femoral neck. Valgus producing osteotomy is typically indicated, and can be successful even with small patches of AVN. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty is generally most predictable. Be prepared for very poor bone quality. Supplement uncemented acetabular component with multiple screws. Be prepared to cement femoral component, if necessary. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: Repeat internal fixation attempts with fixed angle devices (such as a 95-degree blade plate) and bone grafting generally preferred. Avoid varus of proximal fragment and target inferior femoral head bone. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty preferred. Long stems to bypass femoral shaft stress risers and “calcar replacement” stems may be necessary due to proximal bone defects. Trochanteric fixation must be stable. Results are generally good but trochanteric complaints are common

Since the market withdrawal of the ASR hip resurfacing in August 2010 because of a higher than expected revision rate as reported in the Australian Joint Replacement Registry (AOAJRR), metal-on-metal hip resurfacing arthroplasty (MoMHRA) has become a controversial procedure for hip replacement. Failures related to destructive adverse local tissue reactions (ALTR) to metal wear debris have further discredited MoMHRA. Longer term series from experienced resurfacing specialists, however, demonstrate good outcomes with excellent 10- to 15-year survivorship in young and active men. Besides, all hip replacement registries report significantly worse survivorship of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients under 50 compared to older ages. The triad of a well-designed device, implanted accurately, in the correct patient has never been more critical than with MoMHRA implants. The surgical objectives of MoMHRA were to preserve bone stock, maintain normal anatomy and mechanics of the hip joint and to approximate the normal stress transmission to the supporting femoral bone. The functional objectives were better sports participation, less thigh pain and limp, less perception of a leg length difference and a greater perception of a normal hip. Cobb reported that patients with MoMHRA were able to walk faster and with more normal stride length than patients with well performing hip replacements. They also show that function following hip replacement is very good, with high satisfaction rates, but the use of a patient centered outcome measure (PCOM), and objective measures of function reveal substantial inferiority of THA over MoMHRA in two well-matched groups. When coupled with the very strong data regarding life expectancy and infection, this functional data makes a compelling case for the use of resurfacing in active adults. Recent studies show a possible increase in life expectancy with MoMHRA. Compared with uncemented and cemented total hip replacements, Birmingham hip resurfacing has a significantly lower risk of death in men of all ages. McMinn's investigations additionally suggest a potentially higher mortality rate with cemented total hip replacements. These results have now been confirmed by other centers as well, and confirm that those undergoing MoMHRA have reduced mortality in the long term (up to 10 years) compared with those undergoing THA and that this difference persisted after extensive adjustment for confounding factors. Early revisions were often due to fracture of the femoral neck while later revisions are associated with loosening and/or ALTR to wear debris. In some studies, revisions of MoMHRA with ALTR have been complicated by an increased risk of re-revision and poor outcome. Component malpositioning is the most common cause of MoMHRA failure. Metal ion measurements are an excellent tool to detect wear at an early stage. The revision analysis highlights the importance of surgical experience, indications and prosthesis design. Use of ion levels, big THA-heads and patient education/compliance were identified as factors improving outcome following MoMHRA revision. Today's MoMHRA is conservative to the bone. It is the first implant that proves decrease of wear in time, disappearance of wear in longer term with a possible life time survival of the implant, this unrelated to the activity of the patient. If following an international consensus, the right implant is used, with a perfect technique in the right patient, all benefits exceed the problems described in the past

Although the vast majority of fractures of the proximal femur will heal with well-done internal fixation, occasionally failure of fixation will occur. Having effective salvage options is important to restore function and minimise complications. In general, it is logical to separate salvage options into those for fractures of the femoral neck, and those for fractures of the intertrochanteric region. Additionally, patient age and remaining bone stock should be considered. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: All efforts are focused on preserving the native femoral neck. Valgus producing osteotomy is typically indicated, and can be successful even with small patches of AVN. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty is generally most predictable. Be prepared for very poor bone quality. Supplement uncemented acetabular component with multiple screws. Be prepared to cement femoral component, if necessary. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: Repeat internal fixation attempts with fixed angle devices (such as a 95 degree blade plate) and bone grafting generally preferred. Avoid varus of proximal fragment and target inferior femoral head bone. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty preferred. Long stems to bypass femoral shaft stress risers and “calcar replacement” stems may be necessary due to proximal bone defects. Trochanteric fixation must be stable. Results are generally good but trochanteric complaints are common

Re-positioning osteotomy in the treatment of un-united fracture neck of femur in young patients improves the biomechanical pre-conditions to promote bone union of the Pseudarthrosis. This operative procedure is the method of choice for Pseudarthrosis of the neck of the femur with a viable femoral head. It is also the method of choice in children and in adolescents even if there is avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The operative technique permits exacts planning, stable osteosynthesis both of the un-united fracture of the neck of the femur as well as the osteotomy and allows early mobilisation. In this series of 56 cases, only six (10%) had collapse of the femoral head due to avascular necrosis, six (10%) patients had severe pain in the hip and nine (16%) patients had severe restriction of hip movement. The overall success of the operation in this series was 84%

Over the past decade there has been a shift in the approach to management of many femoral neck fractures. As noted by Miller et al. those trends are reflected in the practice patterns of surgeons applying for board certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons. From 1999 to 2011 there was a trend toward total hip arthroplasty and corresponding small decreases in the use of hemi-arthroplasty and internal fixation for treatment of femoral neck fractures. For many years the treatment approach has been a simple diagnosis-related algorithm predicated upon classification of the fracture as displaced (historically treated with hemi-arthroplasty) or non-displaced (historically treated with internal fixation). More recently, however, the focus has shifted to a patient-centered approach. In the patient-centered approach factors such as age, functional demands, pre-existent hip disease and bone quality should all be considered. In the contemporary setting it is still important to distinguish between displaced and non-displaced fracture patterns. Non-displaced femoral neck fractures, regardless of patient age or activity, are well-suited to closed reduction and internal fixation, most commonly with three cannulated screws. The union rate is high in non-displaced fractures treated with internal fixation and the benefits of preserving the native hip joint are substantial. Displaced femoral neck fractures in younger active patients, particularly those without pre-existent hip arthritis, are best treated with early anatomic reduction and internal fixation. While a subgroup of young, active patients who undergo ORIF may fail, the benefits of native hip preservation in that group are again substantial. Displaced femoral neck fractures in older patients or those with substantial pre-existing hip arthritis are best treated with arthroplasty. The biggest practice change has been the trend to total hip arthroplasty as opposed to hemi-arthroplasty for a subgroup of patients. Total hip arthroplasty is now favored in almost all active, cognitively well-functioning patients as the degree of pain relief is better and the risk of reoperation is lower in the current era (32mm and 36mm femoral heads). Hemi-arthroplasty, either uni-polar or bi-polar, remains an appropriate treatment for cognitively impaired patients who also have limited functional demands in whom the risk of dislocation is particularly high

In 12 patients, we measured the oxygen concentration in the femoral head-neck junction during hip resurfacing through the anterolateral approach. This was compared with previous measurements made for the posterior approach. For the anterolateral approach, the oxygen concentration was found to be highly dependent upon the position of the leg, which was adjusted during surgery to provide exposure to the acetabulum and femoral head. Gross external rotation of the hip gave a significant decrease in oxygenation of the femoral head. Straightening the limb led to recovery in oxygen concentration, indicating that the blood supply was maintained. The oxygen concentration at the end of the procedure was not significantly different from that at the start. The anterolateral approach appears to produce less disruption to the blood flow in the femoral head-neck junction than the posterior approach for patients undergoing hip resurfacing. This may be reflected subsequently in a lower incidence of fracture of the femoral neck and avascular necrosis

To properly care for femoral neck fractures, the surgeon must decide which fractures are to be fixed and which fractures will require a prosthesis. In addition, the type of prosthesis, hemiarthroplasty versus total hip arthroplasty must be selected. Total hip arthroplasty is an option in the active elderly. The literature supports internal fixation in non-displaced fractures. Current literature supports the fact that ORIF of displaced femoral neck fractures results in failure and re-operation of 20% to 30%. By considering arthroplasty when the patient has multiple co-morbidities including renal disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and severe osteoporosis the re-operation rate can be reduced significantly. The single most important factor in preventing failure with fixation is an anatomic reduction. A femoral neck fracture left in varus is doomed to failure and re-operation. A prosthesis should be used in most displaced femoral neck fractures in patients physiologically older than 65. In active elderly patients total hip replacement should be considered. In elderly patients with multiple co-morbidities who are relatively inactive in a nursing home or lower level community ambulators, a hemi-prosthesis should be considered. The decision-making process is always shared with the patient. When a prosthetic replacement is performed, the low level nursing home or community ambulator who is not expected to live longer than six to seven years is a candidate for a cemented hemi-arthroplasty. Studies report a 25% – 30% re-operation rate in hemi-arthroplasty if the patient survives greater than six to seven years. In the active elderly with little co-morbidity, a total hip replacement should be used. This is not only cost effective but provides the best pain relief of any of the options for treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures. Treatment of femoral neck fractures remains a challenge but the surgeon must select the proper treatment based on fracture displacement, physiologic age of the patient as well as co-morbidities of the patient

Although the vast majority of fractures of the proximal femur will heal with well-done internal fixation, occasionally failure of fixation will occur. Having effective salvage options is important to restore function and minimize complications. In general, it is logical to separate salvage options into those for fractures of the femoral neck, and those for fractures of the intertrochanteric region. Additionally, patient age and remaining bone stock should be considered. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: All efforts are focused on preserving the native femoral neck. Valgus producing osteotomy is typically indicated, and can be successful even with small patches of AVN. Femoral neck fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty is generally most predictable. Be prepared for very poor bone quality. Supplement uncemented acetabular component with multiple screws. Be prepared to cement femoral component if necessary. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, young patients: Repeat internal fixation attempts with fixed angle devices (such as a 95 degree blade plate) and bone grafting generally preferred. Avoid varus of proximal fragment and target inferior femoral head bone. Intertrochanteric fracture fixation failure salvage, older patients: Total hip arthroplasty preferred. Long stems to bypass femoral shaft stress risers and “calcar replacement” stems may be necessary due to proximal bone defects. Trochanteric fixation must be stable. Results are generally good but trochanteric complaints are common

Background. Reasons for revision of metal-on-metal hip resurfacing arthroplasty (MoMHRA) have evolved with improving surgical experience and techniques. Early revisions were often due to fracture of the femoral neck while later revisions are associated with loosening and/or adverse local tissue reactions (ALTR) to wear debris. In some studies, revisions of MoMHRA with ALTR have been complicated by an increased risk of rerevision and poor outcome. The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes of failure and to identify factors that improve outcome following revision of a failed HRA. Methods. From 2001 to May 2015, 180 consecutive HRA revisions were performed in 172 patients. Ninety-nine primary surgeries were done at a HRA specialist centre (99/4211, revision rate: 2.4%), 81 elsewhere. Eight different HRA designs were revised mainly in females (60%). Components’ orientation was measured from radiographs using EBRA. Ion levels were used as a diagnostic tool since 2006 (n=153). Harris-Hip-Score (HHS) was obtained prerevision and at latest follow-up. The initial experience of the first 42 cases (Initial Group) was compared to cases 43–180 (Later Group). Patients of the Later group were noted to have less soft tissue damage, had significantly bigger THA heads implanted at surgery, were educated of the increased complication risk and some wore an abduction brace for 6 weeks. Results. All patients presented with some pain/discomfort. Mean time to revision was 38 months (0–160). Eight HRAs were revised for fracture and 8 for infection. The most common reason for revision was component malpositioning (acetabular 48%, excessive abduction and/or anteversion; femoral 10%) usually associated with high metal ions (62%). The most common intra-operative finding was ALTR (48%) followed by metallosis (36%) and impingement (29%). Metal sensitivity was suspected in 8 patients (6F/2M). There were gender-specific differences in component sizes and causes of failure, with a higher incidence of component malpositioning, osteolysis and elevated metal ions in women. Time to revision in patients with high metal ion levels was shorter with the ASR (21 months, SD:10) in comparison to the BHR (38 months, SD: 25) (p=0.05). For the whole cohort, HHS significantly improved post revision (93, 42–100) (p<0.001). Fourteen complications (9 dislocations; 5 infections) and 9 re-revisions occurred. Outcome {HHSpost-op (p=0.04), complication and re-revision rates (p=0.005)} was significantly better in the Later Group compared to the Initial group. The incidence of complications/re-revisions significantly reduced since the introduction of metal ions (p=0.004). The presence of ALTR did not significantly affect outcome (p=0.65). However, patients with ALTR in the Later group (n=51) had significant reduced complication(p=0.005) and re-revision(p=0.016) rates in comparison to those in the Initial Group. Conclusion. Component malpositioning is the most common cause of HRA failure. Metal ion measurements are an excellent tool to detect wear at an early stage. The revision analysis highlights the importance of surgical experience, indications and prosthesis design. Use of ion levels, big THA-heads and patient education/compliance were identified as factors improving outcome following HRA revision. Patients with soft tissue reactions can have good outcome if operated prior to extensive soft tissue destruction

Displaced fractures of the neck of femur are routinely treated in the elderly by either cemented hemiarthoplasty, in the fit, or uncemented hemiarthroplasty, in the less fit. In Scotland the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) guidelines are followed to identify which patients should have a cemented prosthesis. This is based on cardiovascular status, and the age and fragility of the patient. An uncemented prosthesis should be a final operation. A peri-prosthetic fracture is considered a failure of treatment as the patient then has to undergo an operation with a far greater surgical insult. We looked at all neck of femur fractures over a period of Jan 2007 to June 2010. The number of the peri-prosthetic fractures for uncemented hip hemiarthroplasties was established and a case note review was carried out. There was 1397 neck of femur fractures. 546 hemiarthroplasties were carried out, of which 183 were cemented, and 363 uncemented. 14 patients (4% of uncemented hemiarthoplasties) had peri-prosthetic fractures. The case notes of these patients were analysed. We found there was a common link of significant cardiovascular risk, lack of falls assessment (only 14% of patients had a completed falls assessment and 35% sustained their fracture during an admission to hospital) and confusion (43% had a degree of dementia that caused significant confusion). Cemented implants should be considered in those who have failed falls assessment, or are confused; even if the cardiovascular risk is significant. This decision should be made in conjunction with a senior anaesthetist. This is being implemented in our unit and a prospective audit is being carried out over the same time period (July 2010 to Dec 2013) to assess the benefit

Introduction. The incidence of acetabular fractures in the elderly population is increasing. Treatment with staged or acute total hip arthroplasty (THA) is occasionally required. The role of acute THA however, remains controversial. The purpose of our study was to assess the outcomes of a subgroup of elderly patients who underwent early simultaneous open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and primary THA for displaced acetabular fractures. Materials and Methods. 86 patients underwent ORIF for displaced acetabular fractures at The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne between August 2007 and August 2009. Eight of these patients underwent early simultaneous ORIF and primary THA. Mean age was 79 years. Mean time between injury and surgery was 4 days. Mean time of follow-up was 19 months. There were 3 both-column fractures, 2 anterior column, 1 posterior wall, 1 transverse with posterior wall and 1 T-shaped. Two patients had an associated neck of femur fracture and two had an impaction fracture of the femoral head. The Harris and Oxford hip scores were used to assess clinical outcome. Radiographs were analysed for component loosening. Results. There was one unrelated post-operative death at 5 months. There was a high rate of post-operative complications. Four patients developed heterotopic ossification, 2 extensive. There was one superficial and one deep infection. One patient has a persistent post-operative foot drop. The Harris hip scores ranged from 45 to 86 with a mean of 68. The Oxford hip scores ranged from 24 to 37 with a mean of 32. There was no evidence of acetabular component loosening. Conclusion. Acute THA for displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly is associated with significant post-operative complications and relatively poor clinical outcomes. However, we believe there may be an indication for this treatment when there is an associated ipsilateral fracture of the femoral neck or femoral head

Resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip enjoyed a resurgence of enthusiasm. A recent article has documented that the media played a significant role in its popularity, making claims that were not substantiated in scientific literature. Proponents of resurfacing arthroplasty state that it is bone conserving, provides greater stability, enhances range of motion, leads to a more normal gait, facilitates increased activity levels, decreases risk of dislocation, decreases the risk of leg length discrepancy and find that it is easier to insert in the face of deformity or retained hardware. The naysayers state that it is a more difficult operative procedure associated with a higher learning curve. They note that there are few patients who meet the selection criteria and there is an increased risk of fracture of the femoral neck. Finally, there is concern over metal ion toxicity and adverse tissue reaction. Furthermore, as we explore the literature, several studies have observed that resurfacing requires a bigger cup and results in a significantly higher volume of normal bone reamed from the acetabulum. Other studies note decreased range of motion with resurfacing compared with total hip arthroplasty (THA) secondary to an unfavourable head to neck ratio resulting in increased impingement. While resurfacing is purported to enhance functional outcomes, one randomized trial of 48 patients, 24 each resurfacing and large head THA, compared with 14 healthy control subjects found no difference in gait speed and postural balance evaluations, functional test, and clinical data at 3, 6 and 12 months post-operative. In another study comparing 337 resurfacings with 266 ceramic-on-ceramic THA, at 24 months there was no difference in Harris hip score, pain score or function score, but a statistically greater improved Harris hip range of motion score in THA. In a large meta-analysis study comparing 3269 hip resurfacings (3002 patients) with average follow-up of 3.9 years to 5907 cementless THA (5907 patients) with average follow-up of 8.4 years, the observed rate of femoral revision due to mechanical failure was 2.6% for resurfacing versus 1.3% for THA, yielding annualized rates of 0.67% and 0.15% respectively. An analysis of hip resurfacing data from national joint registries found that hip resurfacing demonstrates an overall increased failure rate compared with THA, except in males younger than 65 years old having a diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis and except with head diameters larger than 50 mm, which may be especially relevant as a contraindication for use of the procedure in female patients