Biomechanical Evaluation of Impaction Fractures of the Femoral Head

Abstract

In contrast to prior biomechanical studies of acetabular fractures, our investigation revealed that disruption of the peripheral distribution of load does not occur with impaction fractures of the femoral head. Clinical series indicate that impaction injuries to the femoral head are associated with a poor prognosis. Previous biomechanical data on acetabular fracture patterns associated with a poor prognosis have shown increases in mean and peak pressures in the superior acetabulum. This was seen with two-square-centimeter and four-square-centimeter impaction injuries. Other factors, such as wear of the articular cartilage during joint motion or associated microscopic damage to the remainder of the joint surface at the time of injury, may also contribute to the rapid joint deterioration seen in these injuries. Further study is indicated.