Risk factors for periprosthetic femoral fracture

Periprosthetic femur fractures are associated with high patient morbidity and are difficult reconstructive challenges. Early identification and appropriate intervention are critical to prevent this complication. Studies varying from case reports to national arthroplasty registry databases have demonstrated that certain factors are associated with an increased risk of fracture. These include trauma, patient-specific problems, and technical issues related to the hip replacement itself. Recent evidence from large registries has shown that the key to prevention of periprosthetic femur fractures is routine follow-up with radiographic studies. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.