Outcome of non-operative management in Garden I femoral neck fractures

Background: We studied the operation rate for secondary displacement in Garden type 1 femoral neck fracture when treated primarily conservatively. Methods: We reviewed the records of 115 patients with Garden type 1 femoral neck fractures primarily treated conservatively. Results: Operation for secondary displacement was required in 48 cases (41%); the displacement rate was highest at age 60-80 years. There was significant difference between age and secondary displacement, but none between gender, ASA classification or Pauwels angle and secondary displacement. Conclusion: Garden type 1 femoral neck fractures deserve special attention because of the high rate of secondary displacement when they are conservatively treated, and surgery should therefore considered. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.