[Femoral neck stress fractures]

Abstract

Femoral neck stress fractures are relatively rare and caused by repetitive high pressure on the bone with insufficient time to recover. These fractures are often seen in fanatic runners or military personnel, who cover great distances. Patients with a femoral neck stress fracture present with mild pain at the front of the thigh or groin. Radiological imaging includes a plain X-ray and/or MRI-scan. Differentiation between a tension- and compression type stress fracture is important, since their treatment strategies differ. Generally, tension type fractures are unstable and demand operative fixation. Compression type fractures can be treated non-operatively if the fracture is smaller than 50% circumferential of the femoral neck.