Greater trochanter fractures in the direct anterior approach: evolution during learning curve, risk factors and consequences

Introduction

Greater trochanter (GT) fractures affect 0.6–29% of patients after direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA). Given the growing popularity of this approach, this study aimed to assess the evolution of the GT fractures during the learning curve, their risk factors and their consequences.

Materials and methods

537 total hip arthroplasties were retrospectively included from May 2013 to December 2017 in a single academic centre. Patient characteristics, perioperative management, clinical consequences and postoperative radiographs were analysed.

Results

GT fractures represented 2.4% (n = 13) of the THA, and there was not a decrease with experience. The GT fracture patients did not require any additional support during the surgery, and full weight bearing was always allowed without any restriction. This complication only happened in females, with the risk significantly increased in those > 70 years old (OR = 4.9). There was no specific consequence during the follow-up, mean HHS score was 98.5 and all of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied postoperatively.

Conclusion

Older osteoporotic women are known to be at risk for GT fracture during DAA THA. Those results reinforce the argument in favour of proper patient selection in DAA to lower the complications since it does not improve with surgeon’s experience.

Level of evidence

Retrospective, consecutive case series; Level IV.