Journal of Orthopaedics, Trauma and Rehabilitation (Dec 2016)
Bilateral Simultaneous Neck of Femur Fractures Arising from a Simple Mechanical Fall—A Case Report for Guidance on Safe Surgical Management
Abstract
Simultaneous acute femoral neck fractures are rare and infrequently reported in the literature. Of the few published cases, most result from underlying pathological bone processes or violent muscle contractions including epileptic seizures and electrocution. We present the case of a 73-year-old lady with metastatic colon cancer who presented with acute bilateral neck of femur fractures following a simple fall. Following a comprehensive discussion with anaesthetic and surgical staff, and in conjunction with the patient, a decision was made to perform simultaneous bilateral cemented stem hip hemiarthroplasties. There were no perioperative complications, and the patient made a positive recovery, being transferred to a rehabilitation institute 3 days after the surgery. Two weeks later, she was discharged home to her family. We have demonstrated that this rare injury can be safely managed during a single operative session in the presence of an experienced multidisciplinary team, despite serious patient comorbidity.