Outcomes of osteosynthesis of periprosthetic fractures of the greater trochanter with an anatomic claw plate

BACKGROUND: The treatment of periprosthetic trochanteric fractures, especially older fractures, is often a challenge. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and radiological outcomes of periprosthetic fracture treatment with the anatomic Peri-Plate claw plate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirteen new fractures (≤6 weeks after occurrence) and 8 older Vancouver AG fractures (35.4 ± 26.1 weeks after occurrence) were followed radiologically and clinically with a follow-up of 44.6 ± 18.8 (24-81) months.

RESULTS: At 6 months, osseous consolidation had occurred in 12 cases and fibrous union in 9 cases. At 12 months one additional osseous consolidation was shown. The Harris hip score (HHS) increased from 37.2 ± 10.3 preoperatively to 87.6 ± 10.3 12 months after surgery. Thirteen patients reported no, 7 mild and one patient significant local trochanteric pain.

CONCLUSIONS: The Peri-Plate claw plate can achieve reproducibly good outcomes in terms of fracture stabilization and bony consolidation, as well as with regard to clinical outcomes in the treatment of new and older periprosthetic trochanteric fractures.