Hemiarthroplasty for geriatric femoral neck fractures

Objective Restoration of pain-free joint function by implantation of a bipolar hemiarthroplasty via anterolateral approach. Indications Elderly multimorbid patients >70 years, age >80 years, low functional demand. Contraindications Infection. Relative contraindications: dysplastic hip joint. Surgical technique Supine position. Anterolateral approach. Incision of the iliotibial tract and entering the interval between tensor fasciae latae muscle/gluteus medius muscle. Capsulotomy. Femoral neck osteotomy. Removal of the femoral head and determination of the size of the bipolar prosthetic head. Inspection of the acetabulum. Adduction, external rotation ("figure 4" position) of the leg. Medullary preparation of the femur with rasps up to the correct level and size of the planed stem. Ensure the correct rotation of anteversion (10-15 degrees). Trial reduction and examination of hip stability. Verification with image intensifier. Cement restrictor, jet lavage, drying the medullary canal, injection of bone cement and insertion of the prosthetic stem. Assembly/attachment of the definitive bipolar head to the stem. Reduction of the joint. Wound closure. Postoperative management Early mobilization and full weight bearing. Limitation of hip flexion >90 degrees, rotation and adduction for 6 weeks. Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Osteoporosis evaluation and management. Clinical-radiological control (after 6 weeks, 1/3/5 years). Results The implantation of a cemented hemiarthroplasty using the anterolateral approach is a muscle-sparing and dislocation-safe surgical procedure with a low risk of revision, which enables early patient mobilization and a good hip joint function.