Vancouver B3 periprosthetic fractures of the femur: options for treatment

The Vancouver B3 type periprosthetic fracture is a rare but difficult-to-treat complication of hip arthroplasty. Various options for the treatment of Vancouver B3 periprosthetic fractures are described in the medical literature. The problem with many studies is the small number of cases, the fact that the results of Vancouver B2 and B3 fractures are only presented together, the lack of a clear definition of B3 fractures and the resulting subjective categorisation of fractures into the two groups (Vancouver B2 and B3). Therefore, the evidence in the literature for the recommendation of treatment strategies for Vancouver B3 fractures can be classified as poor. This review aims to analyse the various therapeutic options with regard to the current state of knowledge based on reports of case series.