Vancouver B2 Periprosthetic femoral fractures around cemented polished taper-slip stems - how should we treat these? A systematic scoping review and algorithm for management

Background: Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) are a challenging complication of hip arthroplasty surgery, posing a high risk of morbidity, mortality and reoperation. The Vancouver Classification describes a B2 PFF around a loose stem with sufficient bone stock. In recent years, the number of B2 PFFs and cementation of femoral stems have increased substantially.

Hypothesis: This systematic scoping review aimed to review the options available to surgeons in managing Vancouver B2 PFFs around cemented polished taper-slip (PTS) stems and establish an algorithm of management to treat varying fracture presentations.

Patients and methods: This study reviewed articles reporting on Vancouver B2 PFFs around cemented femoral stems between 2012 and 2022. Data extracted included: patient demographics, index prosthesis, surgical intervention and decision for treatment, operation time, transfusion requirement, length of hospital stay, post-operative rehabilitation protocol, mobility outcomes, radiological outcomes, complications, reoperations, mortality rates and follow-up.

Results: In total, fourteen studies met all inclusion criteria including 552 cases. Mean patient age was 76.8 years with a male:female ratio 1:1.83 and median follow-up 49.2 months. Treatment options included open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), revision arthroplasty using cementless modular and monoblock long-stems ± distal locking, cement-in-cement revision and cemented long-stem revision ± impaction bone grafting.

Conclusions: Management of B2 PFFs around cemented PTS stems is complex and aims to obtain stable fracture and stem fixation. Options include ORIF, cement-in-cement and cementless revision. The optimal choice depends on a combination of patient, fracture and surgeon factors. This review has proposed an algorithm to aid in decision making.

Level of evidence: III; systematic scoping review.