Outcome following stabilization of type B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures

We present results of internal stabilization of 16 type B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures following total or hemiarthroplasty of the hip. Seven patients had cemented stems, and the rest had cementless, extensively hydroxyapatite-coated stems. Fourteen were managed by a cable-grip plating system, 1 by Dynamic compression plate, and 1 had insertion of cables only. Minimum follow-up was 1 year. Four patients had a major complication: 2 had deep infection; 1 had nonunion requiring amputation; and 1 had persistent hip pain requiring removal of all metalwork, including the hip prosthesis. The average time to healing in the remaining patients was 16.3 weeks. Harris Hip Scores dropped from ail average of 86.8 preoperatively to 73.4 on last follow-up. Periprosthetic fractures are a significant injury, with a high risk of complications.