Results of fixed-angle device fixation (dynamic hip screw) in femoral neck fractures in young adults: a prospective study of 20 cases

Abstract

Background: Femoral neck fractures constitute nearly half of the fractures of the hip. In young patients, hip preservation is advocated. Multiple cannulated screws and dynamic hip screws (DHS) are the preferred modalities. DHS gives better antirotational stability and fixation in femoral neck fractures. The purpose of this study was to assess functional outcomes after fixation of femoral neck fractures using DHS. Methods: A prospective case series study of 20 patients with femoral neck fracture were treated with DHS fixation. Exclusion criteria were patients with pathologic fractures, same-side shaft femoral fractures, skeletally immature patients, and those who were using walking aids before injury. Outcome was assessed by Harris Hip Score (HHS) and by radiographs at 3 and 6 mo. Results: The mean age at presentation was (38.5) years. Union was achieved in 19 patients (95%). The mean follow-up period was 7.13 months with a minimum of 6 mo for all patients included. There was a significant difference in nonunion rates if the tip-apex distance was more than 25 mm. Mean HHS at 6-month follow-up was 87.50 with a standard deviation±11.318. Conclusions: DHS results in better functional outcome with lower complication rates in transcervical and vertical shear femoral neck fractures in young adults. Level of Evidence: Level IV