Vancouver B2 Periprosthetic femoral fractures around cemented polished taper-slip stems - how should we treat these? A systematic scoping review and algorithm for management.

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) are a challenging complication of hip arthroplasty surgery, posing a high risk of morbidity, mortality and reoperation. The Vancouver Classification describes a B2 PFF around a loose stem with sufficient bone stock. In recent years, the number of B2 PFFs and cementation of femoral stems have increased substantially.

HYPOTHESIS

This systematic scoping review aimed to review the options available to surgeons in managing Vancouver B2 PFFs around cemented polished taper-slip (PTS) stems and establish an algorithm of management to treat varying fracture presentations.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study reviewed articles reporting on Vancouver B2 PFFs around cemented femoral stems between 2012 and 2022. Data extracted included: patient demographics, index prosthesis, surgical intervention and decision for treatment, operation time, transfusion requirement, length of hospital stay, post-operative rehabilitation protocol, mobility outcomes, radiological outcomes, complications, reoperations, mortality rates and follow-up.

RESULTS

In total, fourteen studies met all inclusion criteria including 552 cases. Mean patient age was 76.8 years with a male:female ratio 1:1.83 and median follow-up 49.2 months. Treatment options included open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), revision arthroplasty using cementless modular and monoblock long-stems ± distal locking, cement-in-cement revision and cemented long-stem revision ± impaction bone grafting.

CONCLUSIONS

Management of B2 PFFs around cemented PTS stems is complex and aims to obtain stable fracture and stem fixation. Options include ORIF, cement-in-cement and cementless revision. The optimal choice depends on a combination of patient, fracture and surgeon factors. This review has proposed an algorithm to aid in decision making.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III; systematic scoping review.