Comparing surgical approaches for hip replacement in elderly patients with femoral neck fractures

Cemented Hemiarthroplasty in Femoral Neck Fractures; Are Clinical Results Affected by Surgical Approach. A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Posterior and Anterior Approach

NA · Sorlandet Hospital HF · NCT04900506

This study is testing whether two different surgical methods for hip replacement can help elderly patients with hip fractures recover better and have fewer complications.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment210 (estimated)
Ages70 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorSorlandet Hospital HF (other gov)
Locations2 sites (Arendal and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04900506 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of two surgical approaches, posterior and anterior, for hemiarthroplasty in elderly patients with displaced femoral neck fractures. The study aims to determine which approach leads to better functional outcomes, reduced hospital stays, and lower rates of complications. By comparing these methods, the trial seeks to establish a preferred surgical technique that could enhance recovery and independence for patients. The research is conducted at Sorlandet Hospital in Norway, where the direct lateral approach has been commonly used despite reports of inferior results.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 70 to 90 years with displaced femoral neck fractures who were able to walk prior to their injury.

Not a fit: Patients with dementia, severe osteoarthritis, or other major injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery and quality of life for elderly patients undergoing hip replacement surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous randomized controlled trials have shown that alternative surgical approaches may yield better outcomes compared to the traditional lateral approach, indicating potential success for this study.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients between 70 and 90 years of age
* Displaced FNF
* Ability to walk with or without a walking aid prior to falling
* Patients having Sorlandet Hospital as primary service provider for orthopaedic trauma
* Provision of informed consent by patient or proxy
* Low energy fracture (fall from standing height, no other major trauma)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Dementia
* Fractures in pathologic bone
* Patients not suited for HA (i.e., inflammatory arthritis, severe osteoarthritis)
* Associated major injuries of the lower extremity ( i.e., ipsilateral or contralateral fractures of the foot, ankle, tibia, fibula or femur)
* Retained hardware around the affected hip that will interfere with arthroplasty
* Sepsis or local infection

Where this trial is running

Arendal and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Femoral Neck Fractures, Bone Mineral Density, Muscle Damage, Surgical Approach

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.