Application of percutaneous screwdriver rod-assisted closed reduction in treatment of valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures

Abstract

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of percutaneous screwdriver rod-assisted closed reduction in the treatment of valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures. Between January 2021 and May 2022, 12 patients with the valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures were treated with percutaneous screwdriver rod-assisted closed reduction and femoral neck system (FNS) internal fixation. There were 6 males and 6 females with a median age of 52.5 years (range, 21-63 years). The fractures were caused by traffic accident in 2 cases, falling in 9 cases, and falling from height place in 1 case. All were unilateral closed femoral neck fractures, including 7 on the left side and 5 on the right side. The time from injury to operation was 1-11 days, with an average of 5.5 days. The fracture healing time and postoperative complications were recorded. The quality of fracture reduction was evaluated by Garden index. At last follow-up, Harris score was used to evaluate the hip joint function, also the shortening of femoral neck was measured. All the operations were successfully completed. After operation, the incision fat liquefaction occurred in 1 case, which healed after enhanced dressing change, and the other patients' incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-18 months, with an average of 11.7 months. The X-ray film reexamination showed that the quality of fracture reduction was grade Ⅰ in 10 cases and grade Ⅱ in 2 cases according to the Garden index. All fractures reached bony union, and the healing time was 3-6 months, with an average of 4.8 months. At last follow-up, the femoral neck was shortened by 1-4 mm, with an average of 2.1 mm. No internal fixation failure or osteonecrosis of the femoral head occurred during follow-up. At last follow-up, the hip Harris score was 85-96, with an average of 92.4; 10 cases were rated as excellent and 2 were good. The percutaneous screwdriver rod-assisted closed reduction can effectively reduce the valgus-impacted femoral neck fracture. It has the advantages of simple operation, effective, and less impact on blood supply.