Internal fixation of femoral neck fractures: a prospective study.

To determine the adequacy of reduction and the soundness of the technique of primary internal fixation, the authors studied prospectively 96 femoral neck fractures over 6 1/2 years. Patients were followed up for an average of 11 months. The mean patient age was 70 years. Both clinical and radiologic data were collected at 3-month intervals for 6 months and then annually. Radiologic indices recorded included the Garden classification and index, shear angle, Western Infirmary Glasgow angle, lateral angle, nail placement, occurrence of bony union and presence of avascular necrosis. The fixation devices included sliding compression screw and side plate, multiple Knowles pins and a 130 degrees AO blade plate. A high rate of varus reduction, excessive ante- or retroversion and poor nail placement were all noted. Twenty-three patients required a total of 36 reoperations. There were six deaths in the first 6 months after operation. Eighty-five patients (mean age 79 years) with femoral neck fractures treated by hemiarthroplasty (71) or total hip replacement (14) during the same period were also reviewed. Follow-up averaged 8 months. Two patients required reoperation. The general morbidity was similar to that of the group treated by internal fixation, but there were eight deaths. Femoral neck fractures, if treated by internal fixation, demand accurate reduction and fixation for optimum results. Primary prosthetic replacement should be reserved for elderly patients with poor bone stock.