Routine early post-operative X-ray following internal fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures is unjustified: a quality improvement study

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus regarding the proper radiographic protocol following closed or open reduction and internal fixation for intertrochanteric femoral fractures. The objective of this study was to assess the role of early postoperative imaging studies when deciding about weight bear limitations and reoperations. METHODS: A prospective cohort study of 100 patients (26 men and 74 women, at a mean age of 79.8 years) treated by closed or open reduction and internal fixation for AO31A fractures was conducted. According to the AO classification, there were 25 cases of 31A1, 54 cases of 31A2, and 21 cases of 31A3. For every patient, the intraoperative fluoroscopy studies were recorded and post-operative radiograms were taken during the first week. Excluded were patients for whom the early X-rays were clinically indicated. The intraoperative AP and axial fluoroscopy studies were compared with the radiograms taken during the first post-operative week. The investigators compared the decisions regarding weight-bearing limitations and the need for re-operation before and after conducting the radiograms. RESULTS: The early post-operative imaging studies did not change weight-bearing limitations nor did they lead to consecutive surgical treatments. CONCLUSIONS: Unless indicated by physical examination, there is no value to routine post-operative radiograms within the first few days after closed reduction and internal fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures with regard to weight-bearing limitations and re-operation decisions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Identifier: NCT02868125.