Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures in the Elderly: Hemiarthroplasty Versus Total Hip Arthroplasty

The incidence of femoral neck fracture among the elderly in the United States is expected to increase dramatically because of the anticipated explosion in the population aged 65 years and older, increased life expectancy, and the rising incidence of osteoporosis. The resulting public health implications may be significant, with annual hospital admissions resulting from hip fracture projected to increase to 700,000 by 2050, and with annual spending on hip fracture care expected to exceed $15 billion within a few years. The decision to perform internal fixation, unipolar hemiarthroplasty, bipolar hemiarthroplasty, or THA must be based on patient mental status, living arrangement, level of independence and activity, and bone and joint quality.