Claw Plate Fixation of the Greater Trochanter in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate a new trochanteric claw plate for trochanteric fixation. From 1998 to 2004, 31 procedures were performed by one surgeon. Mean follow-up was 2.2 years. Indications for the procedure included 16 nonunion, 7 trochanteric osteotomy, 5 periprosthetic fractures, and 3 intraoperative fractures. Median Harris hip scores improved from 47 to 92 points (P < .0001). No patient had an abductor lurch postoperatively (P < .0001). No patient had moderate or severe pain postoperatively (P < .0001). Median active abduction increased from 0° to 25° (P < .0001). Osseous union occurred in 28 of 31 hips. Plate-related complications occurred in 6 of 31 hips. No significant difference was identified for outcomes based on indication. In conclusion, the claw plate in this study can sufficiently treat the complex situation of trochanteric nonunion, fracture, or osteotomy.