Fractures of the femoral neck

Conclusion

In endeavouring to assess the actual value of this procedure I think I am correct in saying that it is a real advance on the older methods of treatment.

• (1) It is life-saving.

• (2) It has an easy and painless convalescence.

• (3) A high proportion of good functional results is obtained.

There are, however, some counter-balancing disadvantages. The procedure is admittedly a complicated one. It cannot be carried out with ease in a private nursing home. It requires an assistant well acquainted with the procedure. It requires an expert radiologist and twox-ray machines. It requires a good deal of attention tc all sorts of apparently minor details in order to achieve a good result. I do not wish to suggest for a moment that any exceptional skill is required, but there are sufficient potentialities for error to deter the surgeon who thinks he will “ have a shot at ” a case.