Anterior dislocation of the hip associated with intertrochanteric fracture of the femur-Case presentation-

Abstract

Dislocations of the hip usually occur following high energy trauma, the coxo-femoral joint being inherently stable, and can be associated with acetabular fractures or fractures of the head, neck or shaft of femur. However, the combination between the anterior hip dislocation and the ipsilateral intertrochanteric fracture is extremely rare, the literature offering only scarce information.

We present the case of a patient, aged 44, victim of a trauma by precipitation from height (12m), diagnosed with left hip anterior dislocation and intertrochanteric fracture of the ipsilateral femur. An emergency surgical treatment was applied in less than 3 hours after trauma. The hip dislocation was reduced under general anesthesia and the intertrochanteric fracture was also reduced and internally fixed with a dynamic hip screw. Radiological and functional evaluation at 6 months after surgery, using the modified Merle D’Aubigne hip score was good.

The clinical outcome of such a case depends on the quick evaluation and treatment. Providing a stable reduction of the dislocation and a stable internal fixation of the fracture as soon as possible (within the first 6 hours) will allow an early physical rehabilitation and decrease the risk of complications.