Salvage of failed hip osteosynthesis for fractures with modular hip prosthesis

Background/purpose: Treating options of failed internal fixation include revision fixation and salvage arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results, complications and the final functional outcome associated with modular hip arthroplasty. Methods: Modular arthroplasty was performed in 11 patients due to failed treatment of peritrochanteric fracture. Each patient examination included Trendelenburg test, Harris Hip Score, SF-36, and X-rays of the hip. Examinations were recorded and a paired t test was applied for further statistic analysis. Results: Two years postoperatively, four patients referred no hip pain, seven patients claimed for slight or mild pain, and three patients presented with moderate pain. Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant difference equally for Harris Hip Score and SF-36. Conclusion: The use of modular stems during salvage arthroplasty can decrease the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications. The final outcome for the patient is satisfactory with functional improvement of the hip. © 2015, Springer-Verlag France.