Meta-analysis comparing total hip arthroplasty with hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of displaced neck of femur fracture.

Abstract

Displaced neck of femur fracture is a common clinical problem among the elderly population. Our aim is to review previously published randomized controlled trials to establish if total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty will offer a superior clinical outcome in this group of patients. We conducted literature search for relevant randomized controlled trials. A total of 407 patients from 3 trials were included in this meta-analysis. In the long-term follow-up, we found that THA patients were able to ambulate better, reported less pain compared with their hemiarthroplasty counterparts, and were less likely to undergo a repeated hip surgery. Considering the more favorable long-term outcomes in THA patients, we conclude that there may be a case to offer THA as the primary treatment of these patients.