Increased Mortality with the Use of Cementless Fixation for Femoral Neck Fractures: Analysis of 5883 Hip Arthroplasty Cases

The use of cemented fixation for hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fractures has been advocated to limit the postoperative and intraoperative risk of periprosthetic fractures. However, there are concerns with the potential effects of cementing on patient mortality, particularly at the time of cementation.

This study examined the mortality rates of cemented compared to cementless hip arthroplasty fixation in a group of 5883 femoral neck fracture patients from 2001 to 2017. The data were derived from large administrative databases and census data. Confounders were identified and controlled with a multivariate analysis. The data were also stratified into 2 time frames, 2001-2008 and 2009-2017, to determine if there was an effect of more recent improvements in patient care or implant technology.

Cemented fixation had a statistically significant reduction in mortality rates at 30, 90, and 365 days after surgery. There was no difference in mortality in 0, 1, or ≤7 days after discharge or during the admission. The mortality rate decreased but was still significantly increased with cementless fixation when the subjects were grouped from 2001 to 2008 and 2009 to 2017.

Based on this evidence, the cemented fixation of hip arthroplasty should be considered for patients with femoral neck fractures.