Can Three Screws and a Fibula be a Viable Treatment for Managing Neglected Femoral Neck Fracture in Trans-Femoral Amputees? – A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Management of neglected femoral neck fracture in a trans-femoral amputee is difficult and challenging. There are limited options available for management of such a fracture. While arthroplasty (hemi or total) can be offered in older individuals, young patients should be offered an attempt of salvage of their native hips. Neglected femoral neck fracture in two young male patients who were trans-femoral amputees was managed by fixation through a Watson-Jones approach. Strategically placed Schanz screws and K-wires were used as joysticks for obtaining reduction and three 6.5mm cannulated screws were placed in a triangular fashion. An augmentation of the fixation was done with free fibula autograft placed in the center of the triangle. Union was achieved in both the cases. Patients were pain-free at the latest follow-up visit. Meticulous clinical and radiological evaluation is mandatory in multiply injured patients to avoid missing fractures. Fixation of neglected femoral neck fractures in young transfemoral amputees with three screws and a fibula can be considered a viable alternative to valgus osteotomy in cases where the stump is small for successful placement of the implant and where implant availability is an issue or the surgeon is comfortable in using screws and fibula for non-unions of femoral neck.