Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures: current diagnostic and treatment strategies

Abstract

Associated ipsilateral femoral neck fractures have been reported to occur in 1% to 9% of femoral shaft fractures. The associated femoral neck fracture is often nondisplaced, and the diagnosis is delayed or missed in up to one-third of cases. It is essential to carefully evaluate the femoral neck in all patients sustaining high-energy femoral shaft fractures. Although there are a number of different implant options available for management of this challenging injury, most authors recommend that priority be given to anatomic reduction and optimal stabilization of the femoral neck fracture because nonunion, malunion, or avascular necrosis of this injury is more difficult to successfully treat.