The Fixion expandable stem hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fracture: technical features and pilot study

Background

Management of displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly patients is challenging due to the patient’s high risk profile, poor quality bone stock and muscle weakness.

Materials and methods

Fifty-one patients with displaced (Garden 3–4) intracapsular femoral neck fractures were treated with a newly designed Fixion expandable stem hemiarthroplasty implant and followed thereafter for a minimum of 6 months.

Results

Thirty patients (58.8%) had concomitant diseases graded 3–4 by the ASA scoring system. Two patients (4.8%) incurred deep wound infections that necessitated hardware removal. One case (2.6%) of dislocation was treated by closed reduction. Forty-two patients (82.4%) survived >6 months and cooperated with the study protocol. Mild groin/thigh pain was reported by 11 patients (26.2%). Twenty-six (61.9%) had lost 1–2 out of 4 grades of mobility.

Conclusions

Fixion implant may be considered a further step in the evolution of femoral joint hemiarthroplasty. In the short term, it has proven to be as effective as cemented implant and to be user-friendly for the surgeon. It is also anticipated to be feasible whenever revision is required.