Cementless, Fluted, Long-Stem Hemiarthroplasty for Vancouver B2 and B3 Periprosthetic Fractures Around Hip Hemiarthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a cementless, modular, fluted, long-stem hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of Vancouver type B2 and B3 periprosthetic femoral fracture around hip hemiarthroplasty.

This was a retrospective case-control study comparing 46 patients revised to hemiarthroplasty (HA group) and 31 revised to total hip arthroplasty (THA group). Functional outcome was evaluated by the Merle d’Aubigné score, and the Katz scale based on activities of daily living. Comorbidity was assessed by the Charlson index, and cognitive function by a mini-mental test score. Radiological evaluation was also performed.

Mean postoperative follow-up was 3.3 (range, 2-4) years in the HA group and 3.9 (range, 2-5) in the THA group. The need for transfusion and hospital stay were significantly higher in the THA group. Postoperatively, both groups had a significant decrease in mean hip function ( P = .001) although the mean Merle ( P = .121) and Katz ( P = .214) scores were similar at final follow-up. Likewise, there were no significant differences between groups in pain or loss of life independence. All fractures were united but one in the HA group. There were no dislocations in the HA group, and 3 in the THA group.

The management of Vancouver B2 and B3 periprosthetic femoral fracture around hemiarthroplasties with a long-stem revision cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty, supplemented with wire cerclages and cancellous allograft, was an effective option in terms of fracture healing and stability of the implant with a low rate of complications. Nevertheless, a significant functional impairment was also observed in either group.