[Arthroplasty after failed osteosynthesis in hip fractures].

Objective: To assess the functional status of patients with arthroplasty after failed osteosynthesis in hip fractures.

Material And Methods: Prospective, descriptive, cohort of patients with primary failed osteosynthesis in hip fracture, who underwent total arthroplasty in the period 2002-2004, analyzed with the Harris functional scale.

Results: 26 patients: 17 women and 9 men, mean age of 74.8 years. Seventeen patients had loosening of dynamic hip screw, 5 of condylar screw 5 and 4 with cannulated screws. We made 12 hybrid, 10 cemented and 4 not cemented arthroplasties. Eighteen patients with good results, 7 with regular and 1 bad result. Patients with the highest rating were the youngest.

Discussion: Arthroplasty of the hip in a patient with failed osteosynthesis should be considered necessary. If we can improve pain of the hip, the patient will have less functional limitation and a better quality of life. This type of surgery requires high technical capability and experience by the orthopedic surgeon.

Conclusions: Hip arthroplasty after failed osteosynthesis in hip fractures is a method that improves function and a gives a better life quality.