Periprosthetic fractures: epidemiology and future projections

Abstract

Periprosthetic fractures are fractures that occur in association with an orthopaedic implant, most often used for joint arthroplasty or fracture fixation. They are associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality in some cases. The incidence of periprosthetic fractures appears to be increasing as a result of increasing patient longevity, more demanding activity levels that persist into advanced age for some patients, and as a result of the increasing rate of revision arthroplasty which accompanies increasing patient longevity. Implant, surgeon, and patient factors all contribute to the risk of periprosthetic fracture. In this review, we intend to discuss current trends in periprosthetic fractures and risk factors associated with their development in the joint arthroplasty and fracture patient.