BACKGROUND: The Targon FN implant was developed in 2007 to treat intracapsular neck of femur fractures. Early results from the design centre have shown good results in terms of fracture complications. We wished to see if these results can be reproduced in an independent institution. METHODS: The records of consecutive patients, treated with this implant between 2008 and 2011 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, were identified and collected for this study. Operations were performed by all grades of surgeons under supervision as appropriate. These patients went on to have both clinical and radiological assessment for fracture healing and function. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients were identified with 43 patients available for final follow-up. The average age was 66 years with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. A non-union rate of 0% in the undisplaced fracture group and 1 in 12 (8%) in the displaced fracture group was observed. An avascular necrosis rate of 6% and 8% was observed for undisplaced and displaced fracture types, respectively. No significant change in premorbid to postoperative ambulation was observed and there was no wound complication. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows similar results with those of the design centre and which are superior to those currently found in the literature for the more traditional fixation methods. It also shows that the promising results with this new implant as seen from the design institutions can be reproduced by all cadres of surgeons in non-specialist practice.
Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Bone Plates ; Bone Screws ; Female ; Femoral Neck Fractures/radiography/*surgery ; Follow-Up Studies ; Fracture Fixation, Internal/*instrumentation/methods ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prosthesis Design ; Retrospective Studies ; Young Adult

Many species have been drastically affected by rapid urbanization. Harris's hawks from their natural habitat of open spaces and a supply of rodents, lizards and other small prey have been forced to change their natural environment adapting to living in open spaces in sub- and peri-urban areas. Specific areas include playgrounds, parks and school courtyards. The migration of this predatory species into these areas poses a risk to individuals, and especially the children are often attacked by claws, talons and beaks intentionally or as collateral damage while attacking rodent prey. In addition, the diverse micro-organisms harbored in the beaks and talons can result in wound infections, presenting a challenge to clinical management. Here we would like to present a case of an 80-year-old man with cellulitis of both hands after sustaining minor injuries from the talons of a Harris's hawk and review the management options. We would also like to draw attention to the matter that, even though previously a rarity, more cases of injuries caused by birds of prey may be seen in hospital settings.
Aged, 80 and over ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cellulitis ; etiology ; Hand Injuries ; etiology ; Hawks ; physiology ; Humans