Management of proximal femoral fractures in the presence of hip resurfacing arthroplasty: peri-operative considerations and a meta analysis

Abstract

Periprosthetic fractures which occur in close proximity to an in situ hip resurfacing prosthesis can pose a technically demanding challenge to orthopaedic surgeons. While this is currently an uncommon problem, it is logical to assume that as the numbers of hip resurfacing arthroplasties increase, we are likely to see larger numbers of patients with this presentation. In these cases, if the resurfacing prosthesis in not functioning well, the choice to replace it is easy. If it is well functioning, this decision becomes more difficult however. We present a case illustrating our experience with this unusual problem. We discuss our treatment strategy, the issues and options which need to be considered before treating these patients and review the current literature addressing this topic.