Intracapsular hip fractures in young adults have a significant risk of complications. Consequently, some authors advocate urgent and/or open fracture reduction. Our aim was to analyse outcomes following such fractures with reference to influence of fracture displacement, timing of surgery and method of reduction (open/closed) on the incidence of non-union (NU) and avascular necrosis (AVN).
Specific search terms were used to retrieve relevant published studies from 1966 to May 2003.
Early or open reduction of these fractures may not reduce the risk of NU or AVN. There is a suggestion of a higher incidence of NU following open reduction than closed reduction. Randomised studies with 2 year follow-up are required to report on a larger number of patients before definite conclusions on treatment can be made.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.
Intracapsular hip fractures in young adults have a significant risk of complications. Consequently, some authors advocate urgent and/or open fracture reduction. Our aim was to analyse outcomes following such fractures with reference to influence of fracture displacement, timing of surgery and method of reduction (open/closed) on the incidence of non-union (NU) and avascular necrosis (AVN).
Specific search terms were used to retrieve relevant published studies from 1966 to May 2003.
Early or open reduction of these fractures may not reduce the risk of NU or AVN. There is a suggestion of a higher incidence of NU following open reduction than closed reduction. Randomised studies with 2 year follow-up are required to report on a larger number of patients before definite conclusions on treatment can be made.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.