Cemented versus non-cemented hemiarthroplasty of the hip as a treatment for a displaced femoral neck fracture: design of a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND: A discussion is ongoing whether displaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients should be treated with a non-cemented or a cemented hemiarthroplasty. A recent Cochrane analysis stresses the importance of further research into the relative merits of these techniques. We hypothesise that non-cemented hemiarthroplasty will result in at least the same technical-functional outcome and complication rate, with a shorter operation time. METHODS AND DESIGN: A randomised controlled multicentre trial will be performed. The study population consists of 200 patients of 70 years and older. Patients with a displaced femoral neck fracture will be allocated randomly to have a cemented or a non-cemented hemiarthroplasty. Data will be collected preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year postoperatively. The main outcome measures of this study are technical-functional results of the hemiarthroplasty, duration of surgery, complications, and mid-thigh pain. Secondary outcome measures are living conditions at final follow up, self-reported health-related quality of life, and radiological evaluation of the hemiarthroplasty. CONCLUSION: A recent Cochrane analysis did not find arguments in favour of either non-cemented or cemented hemiarthroplasty. The forthcoming trial will compare treatment for a displaced femoral neck fracture by cemented versus non-cemented hemiarthroplasty. Our results will be published as soon as they become available. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial Registration Number NTR1508