Summary
Avulsion fractures of the femoral head are encountered in conjunction with craniodorsal
luxations of the hip joint and cannot be treated conservatively without risking either
reluxation of the joint or considerable cartilage damage resulting in degenerative
joint disease. Fixation of the fragment is possible by inserting a Kirschner wire
and a lag screw from the articular surface, making sure the implants are well countersunk.
A ventromedial approach to the hip joint allows good visibility of the joint surface
and easy reduction of the fracture without severing the round ligament. The surgical
technique described was used on three cases and combines a ventromedial approach to
the hip joint with fixation of the fracture with a Kirschner wire and a lag screw
inserted from the joint surface, and has the advantages of enabling good reconstruction
of the joint surface as well as maintaining postoperative joint stability. Both these
factors considerably reduce the development of degenerative joint disease and improve
the prognosis for recovery of full limb function.
A surgical technique for treatment of avulsion fractures of the femoral head is described.
It combines a ventromedial approach to the hip joint with fixation of the fracture
with a Kirschner wire and a lag screw inserted from the joint surface.
Keywords
Fracture of the femoral head - articular lag screw - mini implants