Fig. 3

Failed plate osteosynthesis of an intertrochanteric fracture in a 77-year-old lady. a Obvious sclerosis, coxa vara, limb shortening, and screw pull-out was observed, indicating nonunion of the intertrochanteric fracture. Significant osteoporosis should be noted, as reflected by the thin femoral cortices. The patient’s painful limping was evident. b A cemented modular long-stem prosthesis was used to restore the limb length and facilitate enhanced recovery after the surgery