DHS TECHNIQUE


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INDICATIONS

The DHS is indicated for the following fractures of the proximal femur:
The DHS is indicated for stable fractures, and unstable fractures in which a stable medial buttress can be reconstructed. The DHS provides controlled collapse and compression of fracture fragments. This results in a stable fixation and prevents undue stress concentration on the implant.

* For certain subtrochanteric fractures, a 95° device is the implant of choice
(See "Using the DCS for Subtrochanteric Fractures")



PLATE SELECTION

Barrel Length
Barrel Angle

An evaluation of the angle subtended between the femoral neck and shaft axes (C.C.D., or collum-center-diaphysis, angle) of the uninjured femur will aid in the selection of the most appropriate barrel angle. The 135° barrel angle is most commonly indicated.

Note

Note: Greater barrel angles may produce biomechanical advantages in unstable cases; i.e., better gliding characteristics and reduced bending stresses on the plate/barrel junction, although correct placement of the implant becomes technically more difficult as barrel angles increase.(1)

(1) P. Regazzoni, Th. Ruedi, R. Winquist, and M. Allgower, The Dynamic Hip Screw
Implant System (Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 1985) 5.


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