Bilateral femoral neck fracture in pregnancy- outcome of conservative versus operative treatment: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Transient osteoporosis of pregnancy is usually benign in nature. Rarely serious complication like fragility fracture of neck of femur can occur. Usually idiopathic in nature and self-limiting. So far only 12 such cases and bilateral in only 2 patients have been reported in literature. Since, X-rays are usually avoided in pregnancy this condition is usually missed leading to late diagnosis. Case report: A 26-year-old primigravida was referred to our institute on her 7th month of gestation with bilateral hip pain and limp. She developed bilateral hip pain on her 5th month of gestation which was progressive in nature. Her radiograph showed bilateral femoral neck fracture. To avoid radiation hazard to the fetus fracture fixation was delayed till caesarean section on her 38th week of gestation. Closed reduction and internal fixation with three CC screws was done for left femur neck fracture. Fixation was planned for right side fracture simultaneously but since the patient did not consent for bilateral surgery she was asked to review after one month for right femur neck fracture fixation. The patient who lost to follow-up showed up after 6 months walking comfortably. Radiological examination showed that in the nonoperated side the fracture united in Varus with shortening of 0.5 cm. Conclusion: Musculoskeletal problems during pregnancy should not be overlooked. MRI should be used for early diagnosis whenever feasible. Fracture Neck of femur in pregnancy in-spite of delayed diagnosis and treatment has a better prognosis even with conservative treatment. Keywords: transient osteoporosis, pregnancy, femoral neck fracture, spontaneous healing.