Comparison of clinical results of flattapered and rectangular stems in partial hip replacement based on proximal femur fracture

Abstract

Aim: Hemiarthroplasty is commonly used in proximal femur fractures to provide early mobilization and weight bearing to the patient. Cemented and cementless femoral stems are commonly used in this procedure. Cementless prostheses have many advantages and disadvantages, and their relevance to stem design is controversial. This study aimed to compare flat-tapered and rectangular femoral stems in hemiarthroplasty. Methods: The study population consisted of a third-level hospital’s archive orthopedics and traumatology clinic. Our study was retrospective. A total of 176 patients who underwent cementless hemiarthroplasty in proximal femoral fractures between January 2017 and January 2022 were included in the study. Within these protocols, 64 patients underwent hemiarthroplasty using a flat-tapered stem (Group 1), and 58 patients underwent hemiarthroplasty using a rectangular stem (Group 2). At the last follow-up of the patients, the Harris hip score, Visual Analogue Scale, and early and long-term complications were evaluated. Results: No significant differences among the patients were observed regarding Harris hip scores and Visual Analogue Scale values. The study groups were analyzed in terms of developing complications. Similar results were found in both groups regarding periprosthetic femur fractures. Conclusion: Our study found no significant difference between flat-tapered and rectangular stems in terms of clinical outcomes and periprosthetic femur fracture in cases of cementless hemiarthroplasty. As a result, rectangular stems can be safely preferred in hemiarthroplasty.