Role of bipolar hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty in unstable intertrochanteric fracture femur

Introduction: Intertrochanteric femur fracture incidence has increased due to increased life expectancy and osteoporosis. Management of these fractures in elderly is challenging due to difficult anatomical reduction, poor bone quality and osteoporosis. Internal fixation in these cases usually involves prolonged bed rest to prevent implant failure which leads higher complication such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia pulmonary embolism, bed sores, increased morbidity. Materials and Methods: We have done a prospective study in 18 cases of unstable intertrochanteric fracture where 12 (not associated hip arthritis) patients are operated by bipolar hemiarthroplasty and 6 (associated hip arthritis) patients operated by total hip arthroplasty (THA). Results: Patients were followed for an average of 12 months duration (9-15 months). Patients treated by bipolar hemiarthroplasty group (Group 1) have an average surgery duration of 95 min and blood loss of 315 ml. While patients treated with THA (Group 2) has average surgery duration of 152 min, blood loss of 565 ml. About 91% of 1 st group and 100% of 2 nd group has an excellent to fair outcome. Conclusion: Bipolar hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric fracture femur without hip arthritis, and THA for intertrochanteric fracture with hip arthritis in elderly patient results in early ambulation and good functional outcome. However, as our study group is small, so further large randomized trail required before reaching conclusion.