Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy
These are both extracapsular fractures which typically present in elderly, osteoporotic women. Occasionally, they are pathological fractures.
The fracture line of an intertrochanteric fracture runs along the base of the femoral neck between the trochanters, whereas in a pertrochanteric fracture, the line involves both trochanters, one or both of which, may be fractured or separated. Effectively, the pertrochanteric fracture is often, a comminuted fracture and is less stable than an intertrochanteric fracture.
Unlike femoral neck fractures, avascular necrosis is uncommon. The most common complication is varus deformity, but this rarely impairs function. Non-union is often treated successfully by repositioning the fracture; it is rare.
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