An improved cementing technique for revision hip surgery after peri-prosthetic fractures

Abstract

Replacement of the femoral component by a long-stemmed implant is one possible solution to the management of peri-prosthetic femoral shaft fractures. A problem often encountered, due to the extensive disruption of the femoral canal, is difficulty in achieving adequate cement pressurisation. We have overcome this by applying a split 60 ml syringe sleeve around the femoral shaft and holding it in position with clamps. This method has been used on five patients of mean age 87.7 (range 82–94) years with fractures that occurred at an average of 7.2 (range 4–17) years after the primary hip surgery. Two of the five patients achieved independent mobility and all of the patients were sufficiently independent to be discharged from the acute orthopaedic unit. We hope this cheap, effective method of supporting the bone fragments, maintaining alignment and achieving an acceptable level of pressurisation will lead to a decrease in the inevitable morbidity and mortality associated with a problem which as a result of an ageing population is likely to become increasingly common.