Publication:

A comparative study between proximal femur locking compression plate and dynamic hip screw fixation in management of intertrochantric femur fractures

Background Proximal femur fractures are one of the commonest fracture encountered in orthopaedic trauma practice. Dynamic hip screw (DHS) is the gold standard procedure for treatment for stable intertrochanteric  fractures, however problem arises with unstable fractures in maintenance of neck shaft angle and proper reduction. Here we are giving results of trochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral locking compression plate (PFLCP) as compared with dynamic hip screw (DHS).

Methods This study was a prospective study. Two groups of trochanteric fractures of 25 patients operated with DHS and LCP were taken. Each patient was followed-up from July 2011 to October 2012 for minimum of 12 month or till the bony union. Every fracture was classified according to AO classification. Functional results will be assessed as per modified Harris hip evaluation score.

Results Among 25 patient treated with PFLCP, length discrepancy was .857 cm while that for DHS was 1.2 cm. The mean time of unaided walking with LCP Was 14.20 weeks while for DHS it was 16.20 weeks. The mean varus angulation for LCP 8 degree while for DHS 10.2 degree. In LCP in 1 case screw cut out from head and neck of femur while in DHS, same is seen in 2 cases and in addition loss of position of lag screw seen in 5 cases.one case was found with superficial infection in LCP while in case of DHS 3 cases with deep infection for that implant was removed and 6 cases were found with superficial infection.

Conclusions Proximal femoral locking plate (PFLCP) is simple, stable for fixation with fewer complications, and is an effective method for unstable intertrochanteric fractures.  Comparing with DHS group, the locking plate has shorter operative time, fewer blood loss and drainage.