Outcomes and possible complications of using the dynamic condylar screw in unstable proximal femoral fractures

Katebi, Saeed; Gorgani Firouzjah, Habib; SahebJamei, Afshin; Ghorbani, Somayeh

doi:10.22034/ijos.2026.555769.1183

Outcomes and possible complications of using the dynamic condylar screw in unstable proximal femoral fractures

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Saeed Katebi ¹

habib Gorgani Firouzjah ²

afshin SahebJamei ³

Somayeh Ghorbani ⁴

¹ Golestan univercity of medical sciences

² 2. Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran

³ Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran

⁴ Assistant Professor, Cancer Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijos.2026.555769.1183

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Unstable proximal femoral fractures are among the most common causes of mortality and disability in the elderly, with an increasing incidence due to rising life expectancy. To date, no comprehensive guideline exists for the surgical management of these fractures, and non-surgical approaches are generally associated with higher complication rates.
Methods: In this retrospective descriptive study, 23 patients (12 males and 11 females) with unstable proximal femoral fractures (AO/OTA 31-A2 and 31-A3) who underwent fixation with a dynamic condylar screw (DCS) between 2019 and 2023 at 5 Azar Hospital, Gorgan, were evaluated. Data were collected from electronic medical records and through in-person/telephone follow-up visits for one year post-surgery. Outcomes were assessed using the Harris Hip Score (HHS), time to radiographic union, and mechanical/non-mechanical complications.
Results: The mean age of patients was 68.5 years. The mean Harris Hip Score was 74.9 ± 8.5, and the mean time to union was 14.9 ± 2.2 weeks. Mechanical complications occurred in 21.7% of patients (most common: lag screw cut-out), and non-mechanical complications were observed in 47.8% (most common: need for blood transfusion). Female gender and older age were associated with higher complication rates and delayed union, although these associations were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: The dynamic condylar screw is an effective method with acceptable functional outcomes in unstable proximal femoral fractures. However, larger studies with control groups are required to confirm these findings.

Keywords

Hip Fractures

Femoral Fractures

Bone Screws

Fracture Fixation

Postoperative Complications

Subjects