Hip hinge thigh brace for early mobilization of proximal femoral shaft fractures.

A new design, the 'Hip Hinge Thigh Brace' is presented for the safe early functional mobilization of patients with proximal half femoral shaft fractures. The mechanics, prescription, application technique and early clinical experience are reported. Use of the newer Crystona plastic plaster is shown to provide a more functional brace than the plaster of Paris casts.