The Use of Locking Plates for Greater Trochanteric Fixation

Abstract

Stable fixation for healing of the greater trochanter after fracture or osteotomy is difficult to achieve, especially when associated with periprosthetic osteolysis. Wiring techniques are cumbersome and cable grip fixation has an unacceptable rate of non-union, cable fraying, and production/migration of third-body debris. Using 4 case examples, we present a novel and straightforward locking plate technique that we currently use to achieve such fixation. This method also allows placement of bulk allograft that may restore trochanteric bone stock in cases of marked osteolysis. The technique uses implants that are readily available, and can be employed not only in fixation of trochanteric osteotomy but also in trochanteric advancement. At a minimum of 20 months follow-up, healing of the fracture or osteotomy with full abductor function and a significant improvement in hip score was observed in each of the 4 patients. We acknowledge that biomechanical and larger clinical studies are necessary to confirm the success of this technique, but we are pleased with our preliminary findings and continue to use this approach.