[Penetration of a sliding screw into the pelvis. A rare complication in osteosynthesis of hip fractures].

Penetration into the pelvis by a sliding screw, with screwplate disengagement, is a rare complication after osteosynthesis of intertrochanteric fractures of the femur. This case highlights such an unusual event with fatal outcome. Unstable fracture, osteoporosis, and full weight bearing combined with the failure of the screw to slide within the barrel of the plate and with the absence of a compression screw increases the risk of complications. Optimal reposition and screw placement with a high plate angle, full screw-plate engagement and use of the compression screw is recommendable in unstable fractures.