New technique for revising dynamic hip screw fixations with lag screw in situ.

Abstract

Salvage total hip arthroplasty for failed Dynamic hip screw fixation has widely been advocated as a viable treatment option with successful functional outcomes. However, when revising a dynamic hip screw, removal of the lag screw can pose problems in terms of difficulty and risk of iatrogenic fractures. This is because the lag screw is not reverse-cutting and therefore a large torque is generated which can lead to such fractures. We report on a series of eight cases in which we excised the femoral head with the lag screw in situ. We recommend this technique as a safe and effective method to reduce the risk of iatrogenic fractures.