Comparative evaluation of the two positions used for imaging of trochanteric fractures

Abstract

This study evaluates and compares the efficacy of the two positions used for imaging of the hip in trochanteric fractures. One hundred patients with grade I or grade II trochanteric fractures were divided into two equal groups. In group I the fracture was reduced and the opposite hip was brought to full abduction, neutral flexion and neutral rotation. In group II, the fracture was reduced and the opposite hip was flexed beyond 90 °, abducted and externally rotated. Only patients with minimal or no comminution were included in this study. The radiation exposure time was considerably less in group II. The abduction angle between the two limbs of the fracture table was higher in group II and it was possible to visualize the femoral head completely in the lateral view in 96 per cent of patients in group II and 76 per cent in group I. We strongly recommend that the opposite hip should be flexed to about 90 °, abducted and externally rotated if it is not possible to see the femoral head completely in the lateral view.