Abstract

Aim : We report our experience with cannulated hip screws and analyse the risk factors associated with their early failure. Materials and methods : All patients undergoing cannulated hip screws at a single UK Major Trauma Centre between November 2009 and November 2011 were retrospectively identified. Radiographs were ana­lysed for fracture displacement, successful reduction, and screw configuration. Risk factors predicting early failure, defined as re-operation within 6 months, were identified using logistic regression models. Results : 340 patients were included in the study, 70% were female and the mean age was 81 years. After six months 23% patients had undergone revision surgery. Initial fracture displacement (p = 0.02) and unsuccessful lateral reduction (p = 0.04) were significant predictors of early failure. Conclusion : Initial fracture displacement and successful fracture reduction are the most important factors­ related to the risk of early re-operation. We found no evidence that screw configuration is an important predictor of outcome.