Long-stem revision prosthesis for salvage of failed fixation of extracapsular proximal femoral fractures.

A retrospective review was made of radiographs and case notes of patients with failed fixation of extracapsular proximal femoral fractures subsequently managed with long-stem revision arthroplasty. Follow-up radiographs, objective scoring, mobility, and complications were assessed. Twenty five hips were managed with long-stem hip arthroplasty in 24 patients with a mean age of 73 years. The mean follow-up was 24 months. Patients received uncemented acetabular components and long-stem uncemented femoral implants. Complications included two intraoperative femoral fractures which were strut-grafted, three wound infections (one required washout), and one recurrent dislocation managed conservatively. Average postoperative Oxford Hip score was 29. We report a low complication rate and no specific implant related problems, with good functional outcome as evidenced by the outcome scores and mobility status following salvage arthroplasty.