Periprosthetic femoral fractures following total hip and total knee arthroplasty

Total joint arthroplasties are increasing worldwide in both frequency and prevalence for a number of factors. When successful, they offer great improvements in patient satisfaction and quality of life. However, fractures around implants are often difficult to manage, are detrimental to the health of the patient and require prolonged inpatient stays in tertiary hospitals with associated healthcare expenditure. The most appropriate management choice may differ between surgeons, but most patients will be managed surgically if mobility or joint stability are threatened. Those affected are often at higher risk of more surgery, are frailer and at higher risk of mortality and a lifelong reduction in mobility. Incidence of these fractures is increasing, and patients should appreciate the risk and implications of this recognised complication of joint arthroplasty.