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Skeletal Radiology
Published in: Skeletal Radiology 1/2019

01-01-2019 | Review Article

Fragility fractures of the proximal femur: review and update for radiologists

Authors: Kimia Khalatbari Kani, Jack A. Porrino, Hyojeong Mulcahy, Felix S. Chew

Published in: Skeletal Radiology | Issue 1/2019

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Abstract

Proximal femoral fragility fractures are common and result in significant morbidity and mortality along with a considerable socioeconomic burden. The goals of this article are to review relevant proximal femoral anatomy together with imaging, classification, and management of proximal femoral fragility fractures, and their most common complications. Imaging plays an integral role in classification, management and follow-up of proximal femoral fragility fractures. Classification of proximal femoral fragility fractures is primarily based on anteroposterior hip radiographs. Pertinent imaging features for each category of proximal femoral fractures that would guide management are: differentiating nondisplaced from displaced femoral neck fractures, distinguishing stable from unstable intertrochanteric fractures, and determining the morphology and comminution of subtrochanteric fractures. Treatment of proximal femoral fragility fractures is primarily surgical with either arthroplasty or internal fixation. Intramedullary nailing is used in the treatment of some types of proximal femoral fragility fractures and may be associated with unique complications that become evident on postoperative follow-up radiographs.
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Metadata
Title
Fragility fractures of the proximal femur: review and update for radiologists
Authors
Kimia Khalatbari Kani
Jack A. Porrino
Hyojeong Mulcahy
Felix S. Chew
Publication date
01-01-2019
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Skeletal Radiology / Issue 1/2019
Print ISSN: 0364-2348
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2161
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-018-3008-3

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