Isolated fracture of the greater trochanter is an uncommon presentation of hip fracture. Traditional teaching has been to manage these injuries nonoperatively, but modern imaging techniques have made it possible to detect occult intertrochanteric extension of the fracture in up to 90% of cases.
Greater trochanteric fractures generally result from forceful muscle contraction of a fixed limb, which usually occurs in those who are young and physically active. It can also be caused by direct trauma.
ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM CodesOsteoporosis ICD-9-CM & ICD-10-CM CodesDisuse osteoporosis: 733.03M81.8Other osteoporosis: 733.09M81.8FRAGILITY FRACTURESHip fracture: 820.0, 820.2, 733.14S72.019A, S72.023A, S72.033A, S72.043A, S72.099A, S72.109A, S72.143A, S72.23XA, M84.459A12 more rows
Fractures isolated to the greater trochanter region are rare. Recommended treatments for greater trochanteric fractures can include bedrest,13 taping,14 hip spica casting,15 and internal fixation. Recently, Omura employed only bed rest in a single patient, but no follow-up outcome was reported.
The greater trochanter is situated on the proximal and lateral side of the femur, just distal to the hip joint and the neck of the femur.
The greater trochanter is located at the top of the thighbone (femur) and is the most prominent and widest part of the hip.