Femoral shaft perforation at arthroplasty: to treat or not to treat.

Femoral shaft perforation at total hip arthroplasty is a complication that is being noted more frequently, and it is often associated with femoral shaft fracture below the prosthesis. This study examines the anatomic and biomechanical effects of femoral shaft perforation at arthroplasty, and the effects of supporting the perforated bone with Partridge plates and bands. Two models, pig femora and Pedilen cylinders, were employed. Testing the bone models to failure in tensile mode showed that the perforations weakened the bone and that the Partridge plates and bands decreased the weakening effects of the perforation. The strengthening effect of the Partridge plates and bands on the bone with a perforation, allied with the presence of an internal splint in the event of a fracture through the perforation, suggests the benefit of using Partridge plates and bands if a cortical perforation is found at arthroplasty and revision is not feasible.