The effectiveness of capsular decompression for internal fixation of intracapsular hip fractures

Wong TC, Yeung SH, Ip FK
Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong

PURPOSE. To compare the results of screw fixation plus capsular decompression versus screw fixation alone for managing intracapsular hip fractures.

METHODS. Of 201 patients with intracapsular hip fractures, 99 underwent screw fixation with capsular decompression (capsular decompression group) and 102 underwent screw fixation alone (control group). The incidence and time to development of avascular necrosis of the femoral head, union rate, time to union, and other clinical parameters were compared.

RESULTS. In patients with displaced fractures, the incidence of avascular necrosis was significantly higher in the control than capsular decompression group, whereas the time to development of this complication was significantly shorter.

CONCLUSION. Capsular decompression did not improve the union rate and time to union in undisplaced intracapsular hip fractures, but in displaced fractures it appeared to reduce the incidence and delay the onset of avascular necrosis.