Periprosthetic Occult Femoral Fracture: An Unknown Side Effect of Press-Fit Fixation in Primary Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Purpose: The objectives of this study were to examine the prevalence and risk factors for development of periprosthetic occult femoral fractures during primary cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) and to assess the clinical consequences of these fractures.

Materials and methods: A total of 199 hips were examined. Periprosthetic occult femoral fractures were defined as fractures not detected intraoperatively and on postoperative radiographs, but only observed on postoperative computed tomography (CT). Clinical, surgical, and radiographic analysis of variables was performed for identification of risk factors for periprosthetic occult femoral fractures. A comparison of stem subsidence, stem alignment, and thigh pain between the occult fracture group and the non-fracture group was also performed.

Results: Periprosthetic occult femoral fractures were detected during the operation in 21 (10.6%) of 199 hips. Of eight hips with periprosthetic occult femoral fractures that were detected around the lesser trochanter, concurrent periprosthetic occult femoral fractures located at different levels were detected in six hips (75.0%). Only the female sex showed significant association with an increased risk of periprosthetic occult femoral fractures (odds ratio for males, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.15-1.01; P=0.04). A significant difference in the incidence of thigh pain was observed between the occult fracture group and the non-fracture group (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Occurrence of periprosthetic occult femoral fractures is relatively common during primary THA using tapered wedge stems. We recommend CT referral for female patients who report unexplained early postoperative thigh pain or developed periprosthetic intraoperative femoral fractures around the lesser trochanter during primary THA using tapered wedge stems.