Authors of section

Executive editor

Michael Baumgaertner

Authors

Michael Huo, Michael Leslie, Iain McFadyen

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Fracture around a loose femoral component with poor bone stock

General considerations

These fractures occur when osteolysis has caused the loss of bone stock and loosening of the femoral component.

They are classified by UCPF as V.3-B3.

Loss of bone stock and loosening of the femoral component

Etiology

V.3-B3 fractures often occur with minimal or no trauma.

Clinical signs

  • Preexisting swelling, pain, and dysfunction
  • New pain, swelling, and deformity after injury
  • History of possible infection

Imaging

Plain X-rays remain the first line of investigation.

CT Scan is required to assess possible fracture extension to the implant interface.

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