Use of an external fixator pin to aid closed reduction of a displaced intracapsular hip fracture—A case report with a technical note

Abstract

A displaced intracapsular hip fracture in a young patient is a surgical emergency. The fracture must be reduced anatomically and fixed in order to reduce the risk of subsequent avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head. Various closed reduction methods, including the Whitman and Leadbetter manoeuvres have been described to reduce this fracture prior to fixation. Failure to achieve closed reduction mandates open reduction. We have found standard closed reduction manoeuvres have failed to reduce displaced intracapsular fractures in young adults following highenergy trauma on two occasions. We have found that the use of a percutaneously inserted external fixator pin can achieve closed anatomical reduction when standard closed reduction manoeuvres have failed.