Reattachment of Complex Femoral Greater Trochanteric Nonunions with Dual Locking Plates

Abstract

The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate complex nonunions of the trochanter fixed with dual locking plates after failed cable fixation devices. Fifteen consecutive patients were operated on for greater trochanteric nonunion and with a mean follow-up of 53.1 months (range, 26-88 months). Fixation was achieved with dual locking plates contoured on the anterolateral and posterolateral surface of the greater trochanter. Trochanteric union was achieved in 13 patients (87%). Failures occurred only when the trochanter was reattached to a proximal femoral allograft. The average total hip score was 14.8 ± 2.2 (Merle d'Aubigné ) and 77.6 (±12.8) (Harris Hip score). However, 20% of successful cases needed painful hardware removal. Greater trochanter nonunions can be successfully reattached with locking plates especially if bone-to-bone apposition is achieved at surgery.