Fracture of the greater trochanter during hip replacement: a retrospective analysis of 21/372 cases.

We reviewed retrospectively 373 total hip replacements operated on using a lateral approach with the patient in a supine position. We found 21 iatrogenic fractures of the greater trochanter, all in women. 15 cases were diagnosed during the operation and were treated with wire fixation. 6 fractures were diagnosed on radiographs during the first 3 months following the operation. 2 of these 6 cases presented in association with dislocation of the prosthesis; 1 after 6 weeks and 1 after 2 months. Displaced nonunion occurred in2 cases, 5 healed with minimal displacement and 14 with no displacement. 8 patients limped slightly at follow-up after mean 4 (1-7) years and 4 had some pain over the lateral thigh.