Is there a role for the Girdlestone resection arthroplasty in modern orthopedic trauma surgery? Case series from a medically underserved region and literature review

Abstract

Three cases of proximal femoral fractures due to gunshot wounds were treated with Girdlestone resection arthroplasty. A preoperative functional evaluation and a one year postoperative follow up was performed using the Merle d’Aubigne Score. Despite the unavailability of osteosynthesis or prosthetic implant a good functional result was achieved. The established surgical procedure of Girdlestone resection arthroplasty represents an effective treatment option for patients with severe fractures of the proximal femur with a high risk of infection, who live in low socio-economic and medically underserved areas. This procedure avoids secondary surgery, chronic infections, fistulas and repeated hospitalization. As a definitive treatment in the geopolitical and surgical setting mentioned, this is a previously undescribed application of the Girdlestone resection arthroplasty.