ABSTRACT
Periprosthetic fractures about the hip and knee are a cause of significant morbidity in the geriatric population. This chapter discusses the presentation, work-up and classification of periprosthetic fractures about the hip and knee. Periprosthetic fractures occurring about a total hip or knee arthroplasty can occur intraoperatively during component placement or remotely from surgery in the setting of either low or high energy trauma. Appropriate imaging is paramount in accurately classifying periprosthetic fractures to determine the appropriate treatment strategy. The majority of periprosthetic fractures occur in geriatric patients with osteoporosis. Periprosthetic fractures of the hip can occur in both the femur and acetabulum. Periprosthetic fractures occurring around a total knee arthroplasty can occur in the femur, tibia or patella, with the femur being most commonly affected. Non-surgical management of periprosthetic patellar fractures is preferred in cases with an intact extensor mechanism and a stable implant.
