The Outcomes of Cemented Femoral Revisions for Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures in the Elderly: Comparison with Cementless Stems

Introduction: The present study compares the outcome of the long cemented stem and the revision uncemented stem used in periprosthetic femoral fractures. We propose that the revision with a long stem cemented prosthesis does not compromise fracture healing. Patients and Methods: A consecutive series of 37 patients, operated between 2010 and 2017, were enrolled in a retrospective analysis. A long cemented stem was implanted in 21 patients (study group; age at operation: 63 to 89 years). A distally tapered fluted uncemented stem was used in 16 patients (control group; age at operation: 35 to 77 years). The clinical outcome was evaluated with Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scoring system. Standard radio-graphs were taken before surgery, at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, and last follow-up. Any and all complications during the follow-up period were recorded. Results: Although a significant difference (P = 0.006) was observed in the post-operative Merle d ' Aubigne score over the 12-month follow-up period, no significant difference (P = 0.066) was found in the post-operative pain score between the study and control groups. Periodic radio-graphic assessments showed the disappearance of radiolucent lines and the diaphyseal part of the fracture was healed in all 34 followed-up cases during the first annual follow-up. Early surgical complications were seen in both groups, the medical complications were observed only in the study group. Conclusion: Based on our results, periprosthetic fractures of the femur after a total hip arthroplasty were associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality in elderly patients. Revision with a long-stem cemented prosthesis provided early pain-free weight-bearing without compromising the healing of femoral fractures in elderly patients with osteoporotic bone, altered mobility, poor balance, and reduced cognitive capacity.