Abstract:

Objective: To explore and evaluate the method of artificial long-stem femoral head replacement for the treatment of
unstable intertrochanteric fractures of 15 elderly patients. Methods: Fifteen cases of elderly aged 70-90 years old (average 79 years
old, 10 male and 5 female) were enrolled in study. Fractures were typed according to Evans classification: 9 cases of type IIIA, 6
cases of type IIIB. Applied the posterolateral hip incision, fractured fragments of large trochanter and minor trochanter should be
preserved during the operations that the fragments could be fixed with bone cement. A model could be used before insertion of
artificial femoral shaft because of the defects of femoral neck and femoral calcar. Bone defects in the femoral calcar were stuffed with
bone cement, suction drainage were maintained for 48-72 hours. Results: All fifteen patients were cured and discharged. The period
of hospitalization was 16-24 days (average 20 days). Follow up for 6-12 months (average eight months) was performed in 15 cases, all
wounds were primary healed without infection,dislocation, lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, hip dislocation or subluxation and
death. The function of hip joint was satisfied in 12 patients. Conclusion: artificial long-stem femoral head replacement for the
treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly is a reliable, feasible and effective method which can decrease mortality
and improve life quality.

Key words: intertrochanteric fractures, artificial long-stem femoral head replacement, elderly