Outcome of Internal Fixation by Cephalomedullary Nail versus Outcome of Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in the Treatment of Unstable Pertrochanteric Femoral Fractures in Elderly: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background Pertrochanteric femoral fractures are extracapsular metaphyseal fractures of proximal femur that involve the region between the femoral neck and shaft. Intertrochanteric femur fractures, the most common type of fragility fractures in the elderly, account for 55% of proximal femoral fractures. Intertrochanteric femur fractures have high fatality and disability rates, resulting in a huge burden on the economy and on society. Objective To compare the advantages and disadvantages of the PFN and BHA to provide reliable evidence for clinicians in selecting the optimal treatment for unstable pertrochanteric fractures. Patients and Methods This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. Data Sources Medline databases (PubMed, Medscape, ScienceDirect. EMF-Portal) and all materials available in the Internet till 2022. Data Extraction Data were independently extracted by two reviewers and cross-checked. Results This study included 12 samples which recruited 1019 patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures, form which 515 patients underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BHA) and 504 patients underwent proximal femoral nail (PFN). No significant difference between BHA and PFN in operative time and post-operative hospital stay was found. Intra-operative blood loss and incidence of blood transfusion was higher in BHA compared with PFN. HHS was higher after PFN than after BHA. Patients underwent PFN required larger period for partial weight bearing compared with who underwent BHA. There were no statistically significant difference between both groups regarding postoperative mobility scores, reoperation rate, incidence of infection and limb length alteration. The overall mortality rate risk ratio revealed that the incidence of mortality was higher after BHA than PFN. Conclusion Both PFN and BHA can be used in managing fractures of the Intertrochanteric in elderly patients. PFN establishes itself as a better modality than BHA due to lower postoperative mortality and better functional outcomes. BHA should ideally be reserved for lower life expectancies and those requiring immediate weight bearing patients.