Effectiveness of Dynamic Condylar Screw (DCS) in Treating Unstable Proximal Femoral Fractures
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Despite the availability of various treatment modalities for proximal femoral fractures, there remains ongoing debate regarding the optimal fixation method especially those for unstable fractures, particularly in patients with resource-limited areas. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of dynamic condylar screw fixation in treating unstable proximal femoral fractures. Methods: A longitudinal prospective study was conducted from Nov 2021 to Dec 2022. 47 patients aged between 18 to 65 years with unstable proximal femoral fractures (intertrochanteric, sub-trochanteric, or complex fractures involving the femoral neck or shaft), were included in the study and followed up for 1 year. Patients with open fractures, poly-trauma, and ipsilateral hip surgery were excluded from the study. The effectiveness of the dynamic condylar screw in treating unstable proximal femoral fractures was measured through a structured clinical and radiographic follow-up process. Patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a 95° DCS to ensure optimal fracture stabilization. Results: The study involved 47 patients with intertrochanteric (42.6%), sub-trochanteric (31.9%), and complex fractures (25.5%). The effectiveness of treatment and postoperative outcomes was reported in 43 patients (91.5%), with unsuccessful outcomes in 4 (8.5%). The acceptable alignment as per the radiological evidence was seen in 38 patients (80.9%), mal-unions were observed in 5 (10.6%), and implant failure in 4 (8.5%). Functional outcomes showed 29.8% excellent, 44.7% good, 17.0% fair, and 8.5% poor results. Conclusions: it was concluded that the study demonstrated a high rate of successful treatment across different fracture types, with no significant differences in success rates.
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405924874