Femoral Neck Fractures in Chicago
With convenient locations in Palos Hills and Mokena, IL
Fractures can occur at several points along the hip joint, each requiring specialized care. A femoral neck fracture is a serious injury that occurs in the proximal femur, the region of the thigh bone that connects the femoral head to the shaft of the femur. Dr. Bedikian is a skilled orthopedic surgeon committed to providing comprehensive care for femoral neck fractures, offering personalized treatment plans to help patients recover and regain their mobility.
About Femoral Neck Fractures
Femoral neck fractures are often experienced by older adults due to age-related bone weakening, also known as osteoporosis, and decreased bone density. However, this type of injury can also occur in younger individuals following significant trauma or injury to the hip. Other risk factors include a low BMI and the use of tobacco. The severity of the fracture varies, ranging from nondisplaced fractures, where the bone is cracked but still in alignment, to displaced fractures, where the bone is separated and requires immediate attention.
Symptoms of Femoral Neck Fracture
The symptoms of a femoral neck fracture may include:
- Severe pain in the hip
- Inability to reliably put weight on the affected area
- External rotation of the affected leg
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms following a fall or injury, as early diagnosis and treatment are essential for successful recovery.
Treatment
Surgery is often recommended to help you heal after a hip injury. After it has been confirmed that you have a hip fracture, a procedure is typically scheduled as soon as possible; however, if other medical treatments need immediate treatment, your surgery may be delayed by one or two days. The exact surgery you will need depends on the severity of the fracture. Generally, surgical options include:
Hip repair surgery: When it comes to hip repair, internal fixation, also known as hip pinning, is a common surgical procedure. It involves the use of metal screws, rods, or plates to stabilize the bone during the healing process, especially when the bones can be aligned properly.
Hip replacement surgery: Hip replacement surgery involves the replacement of all or part of the joint with artificial components. In a partial hip replacement, only the head of the femur is replaced. A total hip replacement involves replacing both the socket and the head of the femur. Total hip replacement becomes necessary when proper alignment of the fractured bones cannot be achieved.
Complications of Femoral Neck Fracture
A serious complication associated with femoral neck fractures is the potential disruption of blood supply to the head of the femur. This disruption is known as avascular necrosis, which is characterized by bone tissue death, severe pain, a decreased range of motion, and joint pain that intensifies as the joint begins to collapse.
Modern Practice with Modern Solutions
Our state-of-the-art clinic is home to advanced tools and techniques such as robotic-assisted surgery and arthroscopy for joint procedures.
Contact Us Today
If your hip is injured, do not attempt to “wait out” the pain. Seeking quality care right away is in your best interests, and Dr. Bedikian and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate and expert orthopedic care to help you regain joint health as well as independence following a hip injury. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.