[Complications after osteosynthesis of the proximal femur].

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the proximal femur are among the most common fractures of all bones. Currently nearly every trauma surgeon has to be able to treat proximal femur fractures either with osteosynthesis or with a prosthesis. An increase of 200-300 % of fractures of the proximal femur is expected within the next 30 years. In addition an increase of periprosthetic fractures of the proximal and distal femur can be observed. The correct treatment of these complications is a challenging objective for the trauma surgeon.

OBJECTIVES

This article provides an overview on complications after osteosynthesis of the proximal femur. It contributes treatment options depending on the implant, the patient specific risk factors and the special problems of postoperative care.

METHODS

A selective review of the literature using Pubmed under consideration of experiences gained in the treatment of complications after osteosynthesis of the proximal femur was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the increasing incidence of fractures of the proximal femur on the one hand and complications after operative treatment of these fractures on the other, the trauma surgeon must provide differentiated therapy concepts depending on the individual risk factors of different patients. Moreover, trauma surgeons must know how to treat the potential complications of these procedures.