Failed Hip Fracture Fixation

Revision of failed hip fracture fixation

Healing of hip fractures can be unpredictable especially in patients with osteoporosis and other medical conditions. When the initial treatment has not been successful the fracture can become very painful and the hip deteriorates very rapidly. The diagnosis is made with simple X-rays.

Total Hip Replacement after failed fixation

In cases where initial attempts at fixation have been unsuccessful a conversion of the original operation to a total hip replacement is usually advised.

It is important to exclude infection before implanting any new metalwork, this may require a biopsy. Where the fracture is limited to the head/neck of the femur a standard total hip replacement can be performed. If the bone below the head is damaged a more extensive operation may be required.