Femoral neck locking plate versus multiple cannulated screws for femoral neck fractures in young adults: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Managing femoral neck fractures (FNFs) in young adults remains a significant clinical dilemma. No single internal fixation method has demonstrated clear superiority. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of FNFs in young adults treated with femoral neck locking plate (FNLP) or conventional partially-threaded 6.5 mm multiple cannulated cancellous screws (MCCS). Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) study was conducted on 74 patients to assess FNLP and MCCS in management of FNFs in young adults in Sohag university hospital between October 2022 and October 2024. The outcomes included Harris Hip Score (HHS), weight-bearing timelines, radiographic union times, and complication rates. Results: FNLP demonstrated superior functional outcomes with significantly higher HHS scores compared to MCCS. Patients treated with FNLP achieved earlier partial and full weight-bearing (p