A retrospective review of the Dall-Miles plate for periprosthetic femoral fractures: twenty-seven cases and a review of the literature

Abstract

A retrospective review of the use of the Dall-Miles plate for periprothetic femoral fractures was performed at our institution. Twenty-seven fractures around a hip replacement were fixed using a Dall-Miles plate within 34 months. The mean age at operation was 74 (33-90) years. Twenty fractures were Vancouver B1, two B2, and five type C. Mean follow-up was 11 (2-41) months. Two fractured plates required revision and two fixations loosened, developing varus malunion. One malunion was related to deep infection. All four events occurred within six months of fixation. Two individuals were deceased within 3 months of surgery. Similar complications were evident in nine series published between 1990 and 2012. Increased incidence of periprosthetic femoral fractures is anticipated in a population with significant co-morbidities. Cortical strut allograft, iliac autograft and orthobiological supplementation remain options where non-union is anticipated.

Keywords: Cable plate; Dall-Miles plate; Hip arthroplasty complications; Periprosthetic femoral fracture.