Result of Internal Fixation for Stable Femoral Neck Fractures in Elderly Patients

PURPOSE This study was conducted to evaluate the results of internal fixation for stable femoral neck fractures occurring in patients over 65 years old. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between 2008 and 2014, we evaluated 25 patients over 65 years old with Garden type 1 and 2 femoral neck fractures that were treated with internal fixation after a minimum follow up of 1 year. There were 5 males and 20 females and the average age was 72.3 years (range, 65-84 years) at the time of surgery. Fracture site union, horizontal shortening and complications were evaluated as radiographic parameters and change of walking ability (as measured using Koval walking ability score) was investigated as a clinical parameter. RESULTS Union of fracture site was achieved in 24 out of the 25 cases (96.0%). The average length of horizontal shortening was 6.5 mm (range, 0.2-19.7 mm). At final follow up, 3 cases experienced complications: nonunion (n=1), avascular necrosis (n=1), and subtrochanteric fracture after minor trauma (n=1). Walking ability decreased an average of 1 step at the final follow up. CONCLUSION Internal fixation for stable femoral neck fractures occurring in patients over 65 years showed satisfactory union rates. However, care should be taken with this technique given the possibility of decreased walking ability resulting from horizontal shortening.