Cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty with a cerclage cable technique for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in elderly patients

Aim: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of cemented bipolar arthroplasty as a primary treatment for unstable intertrochanteric fracture in the elderly patients. Methods: Twenty hips with unstable intertrochanteric fractures were followed for more than 2 years after cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty. The mean age was 69 years, and the mean follow-up period was 30.5 months. We evaluated the results by Harris hip score, complications, and radiologic findings. Results: At the last follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 83.3 points. Radiologically, there was no case of osteolysis. All stems were stable without significant changes in alignment or progressive subsidence. Conclusions: Bipolar hemiarthroplasty with calcar reconstruction is a good option for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients with severe osteoporosis with strict indication selection. Longer-term studies with larger numbers of patients are required to address the issues of late complications. © Springer-Verlag 2012.