Fixation of undisplaced fractures of the neck of femur with multiple cannulated screws

ABSTRACT

Treatment of fracture neck of the femur varies according to patient's age and the pattern of the fracture. Multiple cannulated screws [MCS] have been commonly used to treat femoral neck fractures. In this retrospective study we evaluated the outcome of the use of this technique in the treatment of undisplaced fracture neck of femur. In this retrospective chart review study, we revised the files and medical records of the cases of stable fracture neck of femur which had been treated by MCS in patients who were admitted to King Abdul Aziz Specialist Hospital and King Faisal Hospital, Al Taif, Saudi Arabia from January 2007 to December 2011. Sixteen patients with impacted and undisplaced fracture of the neck of femur were treated with multiple cannulated screws. The mean follow up was 26 months; mean age was 38 years [range 14-58 years]. Thirteen/16 patients [81.25%] were satisfied with the excellent results of the treatment. Two patients [12.5%] showed non- union and valgus osteotomy, compression of the fracture and rigid internal fixation were used to promote union. One case developed avascular necrosis and treated by total hip Arthroplasty. Fixation with cannulated screws usually is adequate for most femoral neck fractures specially the undisplaced type with acceptably low incidence of complications