Periprosthetic Fracture Specialist in Rochdale & Greater Manchester
Periprosthetic fractures occur around an existing joint replacement, such as a hip or knee implant, and require highly specialized surgical care. These complex injuries often involve both the bone and the implant, making accurate diagnosis and careful treatment planning essential.
Mr. Cohen provides expert evaluation and advanced surgical management for patients in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, and surrounding areas, with a focus on restoring stability, preserving implant function, and achieving the best possible recovery.
Implants and prostheses inserted into the bones and joints of the lower limbs, through joint replacement surgery, are helpful in the restoration of function in severely damaged joints. However, over many years, these artificial fixation devices can affect the shape and structure of the bone surrounding it, causing it to weaken and making it susceptible to breakage from even a low-energy fall. This rare condition is termed periprosthetic fracture and is associated with pain, limb-length inequality and deformity. The goals of management of a periprosthetic fracture are the same as for any fracture, i.e., restoration of the bones in the right position, getting you to walk soon after the procedure, and avoiding complications of disuse such as stiffness and osteoporosis.
X-rays, both past and present, are necessary to evaluate the fracture and implant changes, and classify the fracture based on severity. Stable periprosthetic fractures may be treated by immobilization with a cast or brace and minimal weight-bearing. Unstable periprosthetic fractures require surgical intervention. If the implant is firmly attached, an open reduction and internal fixation procedure is carried out by re-aligning the bone fragments and stabilising them using screws and plates. Bone grafts may be used to strengthen the weakened bone. If the implant is loose, your surgeon suggests joint revision surgery, where the implant is removed and replaced by a new prosthesis. Bone grafts may be used to strengthen the weakened bone, and a longer stem is used to secure the prosthesis deeper into the bone.
Complications may arise as a result of poor bone quality (osteoporosis) causing re-fractures, dislocation, limb-length inequality and blood clots.
Articular fracture management
Articular fractures involve joint surfaces and are complex in nature. They result in pain, stiffness, deformity and arthritis if they are not adequately realigned and early motion initiated. A good physical and radiological examination is necessary to examine the nature of the fracture, identify the extent of soft tissue injury, and any damage to neighbouring nerves and blood vessels.
Immediate surgery is required for open articular fractures with nerve or vessel damage. If there is significant surrounding soft tissue damage, surgery is delayed until considerable recovery of the tissue to prevent infection and tissue disintegration. During this wait, the fracture is aligned by minimally invasive external fixation and traction methods. Further surgical repair includes elevating the impacted portions of the articular surface back to their correct positions and filling in the defects left behind after elevation, with bone grafts. The articular surfaces are then secured with screws.
Why Choose Mr. Cohen for Periprosthetic Fracture Management?
Treating fractures around joint replacements requires a high level of expertise in both trauma and joint reconstruction.
Mr. Cohen offers:
- Specialized Expertise in Complex Orthopaedic Trauma
Experience managing fractures around hip and knee replacements, including complex and unstable cases - Advanced Surgical Planning
Careful assessment of the fracture pattern, implant stability, and bone quality to guide treatment decisions - Comprehensive Surgical Techniques
Use of fixation methods, revision implants, or combined approaches tailored to each individual case - Continuity of Care
Management from initial diagnosis through surgery, recovery, and rehabilitation - Patient-Centered Approach
Clear communication, realistic expectations, and personalized care throughout the treatment process
Frequently Asked Questions About Periprosthetic Fractures
What is a periprosthetic fracture?
A periprosthetic fracture is a break in the bone that occurs around an existing joint replacement, such as a hip or knee implant.
How do these fractures occur?
They may occur due to falls, trauma, weakened bone, or stress around the implant over time.
How are periprosthetic fractures treated?
Treatment depends on the location of the fracture and the stability of the implant, and may involve fixation, revision surgery, or a combination of both.
Is surgery always required?
Many periprosthetic fractures require surgical treatment, particularly when the implant is unstable or the fracture is displaced.
What is recovery like after treatment?
Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the injury, but often involves a structured rehabilitation plan to restore mobility and strength.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
If you have experienced a fracture around a hip or knee replacement, specialized evaluation is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Expert care can help restore stability, protect your implant, and guide you safely through the recovery process.