Early results of primary bipolar hemi arthroplasty in treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients: A prospective study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly is a challenging surgical condition with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of bipolar arthroplasty as an alternative to the standard treatment of internal fixation. Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Department of Orthopedics, Government Medical College, Jammu from October 2014 to May 2017. Records of total 34 patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures treated under our hospital's Orthopedic Department were analyzed. Results: Out of 34 patients enrolled in the study, 2 patients died during the study, hence the results of remaining 32 patients were analyzed with an average follow-up of 12 months. The average age of the patient was 79.35 years (range 70-94 years). The average surgery time was 82.53 min (range 62-110 min). The average intraoperative blood loss was 409.37 cc and average stay in the hospital was 14.53 days (range 5-21 days). At 1-year follow-up with help of Harris Hip Score, 8 patients (25%) were graded as excellent, 10 patients (31.25%) as good, 10 (31.25%) as fair, 2 (6.25%) as poor, and 2 (6.25%) as failed. Interpretation and Conclusion: Treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients with cemented bipolar hemi arthroplasty results in reduced complications of prolonged immobilization and easy rehabilitation along with rapid return to functional level.