Progress in the study of risk factors for internal fixation failure after intertrochanteric fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Advances in surgical techniques and internal fixation materials have been continuously improving treatment of intertrochanteric fractures, but postoperative failure of internal fixation is inevitable and its causes are still controversial. An advanced age, female and severe osteoporosis are believed to lead to an unstable fracture and a fall more likely, increasing the risk for failure of internal fixation. Unstable intertrochanteric fractures such as comminuted fracture of medial femur, basicervical fracture, reverse intertrochanteric fracture and lateral wall fracture are more likely to lead to internal fixation failure. Non-anatomical reduction, improper insertion point and poor position of a lag screw are also prone to internal fixation failure. Extramedullary fixation for unstable fractures may increase the risk of failure. Long waiting time for surgery, late weight-bearing and infection may also increase the risk of failure. Therefore, it is still crucial for a successful treatment to clarify the specific risk factors for internal fixation failure and make corresponding countermeasures to enhance the success rate of a primary operation. This paper summarizes the risk factors for postoperative failure of internal fixation for intertrochanteric fracture so as to provide guidance for clinical treatment.