SIGN HIP construct: Achieving hip fracture fixation without using an image intensifier

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess outcomes of using the SIGN Hip Construct (SHC) to achieve hip fracture fixation without the use of an image intensifier.
Design: Prospective case series.
Setting: Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Outcome measures: Radiographic union, callus formation, infection, fracture angulation, weight bearing status
Results: A total of 68 patients with trochanteric fractures were operated using the SHC of whom 41 patients came for follow up at 6 weeks. Clinical signs of fracture union were seen at 6 weeks among all patients; all but one had radiographic signs of callus formation. The majority (76%) of patients were ambulatory within 3 days after the surgery. At the 6 week follow-up, there was 1 (1.5%) case of infection and 8 (11.8%) cases of varus collapse.
Conclusion: Using the SIGN Hip Construct, hip fracture fixation can be achieved  safely without an image intensifier. This implant may be a good alternative in developing countries where access to fluoroscopy is limited or non-existent.