TS4: THE PCCP – A BETTER WAY OF FIXING NOFS.

Traditional fixation with a DHS or Gamma Nail has seen instances of excessive fracture collapse, screw cut out, re-operation, and loss of independence for the patient. The Gotfried PerCutaneous Compression Plate (PCCP) is a novel solution reducing the morbidity of fixing intertrochanteric fractures. Claimed advantages include relative preservation of the lateral femoral cortex, achieving better fracture stability, less collapse, and a percutaneous technique. This is a pilot study of the introduction of the PCCP. At the time of abstract submission, 42 cases have been undertaken in Ballarat. The study assesses the safety and learning curve issues. Outcomes include length of stay, morbidity, and return to independence. A comparison to a historical cohort is made. Of the first 42 cases, no operative complications occurred. The operations were no longer than traditional fixation methods, and no “learning curve” errors occurred. One patient with severe osteoarthritis of the hip preoperatively still required a hip replacement, which was performed 3 months later without difficulty. Two patients died within a week post-operatively. The PCCP provided an eloquent low morbidity solution to even extremely displaced fractures, allowing comfortable nursing and a high proportion of patients maintained their previous level of independence. The PCCP is a better way of fixing intertrochanteric fractures. It prevents excessive collapse, maintains femoral shaft offset, has less surgical morbidity, and consequently has minimized the loss of independence often seen with the fractures.