Total hip replacement (THR) is an option in a subset of patients with a neck of femur (NOF) fracture. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) and National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) provide guidance on the use of THR in patients with a NOF fracture. We compare our experience and recommend changes at a local level to allow successful implementation of the guideline to improve patient care.

From July 2008 to July 2011, 36 THRs preformed for trauma were identified retrospectively by cross-referencing several databases (Bluespier, Worcestershire, UK and surveillance of Surgical Site Infection (SSI), Scotland). 7 exclusions (3 failed internal fixation, 1 chronic NOF fracture, and 2 extra-capsular fractures) leaving 29 patients. All operations were carried out under the supervision of a hip surgeon. Outcome data (see results) was collected from electronic sources. Statistical analysis preformed using Fisher's exact test for categorical data.

Median age 62 years (44–88), time to surgery 4 days (2–8), American association of anaesthesia grade 2 (2–4) and hospital stay was 12 days (6–18). The first operator was a consultant in 23 cases and registrar in 6. 9 hips were cemented, 5 uncemented and 15 hybrid. 13 (44.8%) patients had a complication including 8 major (27.6%) complications. A blood transfusion was required in 11 (37.9%) patients. There were 2 (6.9%) deaths. A delay to surgery of more than 2 days was associated with increased risk of major complication (p< 0.03). ASA, Age, Grade of surgeon or Cement not associated with major complications.

Our results are inferior to those in the literature. We have identified potential causes; mainly a delay to surgery increasing risk of major complication. In keeping with the current guidelines we recommend that local pathways are instigated to ensure THRs for trauma may be preformed in a timely fashion.