Description of a minimally invasive technique with a modified instrument for the osteosynthesis of proximal femoral fractures using the standard DHS and case series

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: the number of hip fractures is estimated to increase from 1.66 million in 1990 to 6.26 million by 2050. Internal fixation is the most common surgical treatment for intertrochanteric fractures. Objectives: the objective of the present research is to describe a minimally invasive technique with a modified instrument for the treatment of stable proximal femoral trochanteric fractures using the standard DHS, classified as Tronzo types 1 and 2 (AO 31A1.2), and presenting a case series. Methods: a case was selected to present the technique. Patients operated by this technique undergo a clinical evaluation and preoperative preparation as routine. The criteria for inclusion in the study were the presence of stable fracture of the proximal femur verified by two hip specialist orthopedists, and operated by the minimally invasive technique with a modified instrument using a standard DHS. Exclusion criteria were cases of patients operated for unstable fractures, and the use of other surgical techniques. A case series of 98 patients was performed and discussed. Results: minimally invasive technique with a modified instrument using the standard DHS device can reduce bleeding, it decreases soft tissue injuries, surgical time, and hospital stay, as any other MIPO procedures. Ninety-eight patients underwent the operation (Tronzo types I and II), 59 female and 39 male, ages from 50 to 85 years old. Immediate post-operative complications were shortening of the lower limb, loss of fracture reduction, and death by clinical complications. Conclusion: the present study describes a minimally invasive surgical technique using a modified instrument to perform proximal femoral osteosynthesis for stable trochanteric fractures, using the standard DHS.