Robot-Assisted Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation for Intertrochanteric Femoral Fractures

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Robot-assisted closed reduction and internal fixation: The key distinguishing feature of this intervention is the transition from empirical, experience-based traction to computer-planned, quantitatively-controlled reduction. The robotic system creates an individualized 3D model based on pre-operative thin-layer CT and automatically calculates precise fragment displacement parameters. Unlike manual methods, the reduction pathway is executed or guided via real-time spatial navigation and digital monitoring with strict safety interlocking mechanisms. This approach aims to reduce human judgment bias and enhance 3D anatomical alignment precision, particularly in correcting complex translation and rotational deformities.

Conventional manual closed reduction and internal fixation: This intervention relies entirely on the surgical team's clinical experience, using a standard orthopedic traction table or manual manipulation to achieve bone alignment. Unlike the experimental group, no intelligent robotic systems, 2D-3D registration software, or spatial tracking devices are permitted during any stage of the operation. Reduction quality is evaluated intraoperatively using routine two-dimensional C-arm fluoroscopy (AP and lateral views) rather than computerized 3D planning. If closed alignment is inadequate, the surgeon may convert to a limited open reduction using joysticks or clamps based on empirical judgment.

Study summary

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the clinical effectiveness and safety of robot-assisted autonomous closed reduction versus traditional manual closed reduction in adult patients aged 18 to 80 years with acute, closed intertrochanteric femoral fractures (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association \[AO/OTA\] classification 31-A). The main question it aims to answer is:

Whether robot-assisted autonomous closed reduction can achieve a significantly higher rate of excellent and good bone fracture reduction compared to traditional manual reduction, as rigorously evaluated by low-dose computed tomography (CT) and a three-dimensional (3D) quantitative standard.

Researchers will compare the robot-assisted autonomous closed reduction group (intervention group) to the traditional manual closed reduction group (control group) to see if the robotic system significantly improves 3D anatomical reduction precision, reduces intraoperative fluoroscopy times and radiation doses, shortens operation times, and ultimately enhances long-term clinical hip functions and health-related quality of life.

Participants will be asked to do the following tasks:

Complete baseline medical screening, standard hip X-rays, and bilateral full-length thin-layer CT scans before the surgery.

Undergo a 1:1 randomized allocation after anesthesia to receive either robot-assisted autonomous closed reduction or traditional experience-based manual closed reduction, both followed by conventional proximal femoral intramedullary nailing internal fixation.

Receive post-operative low-dose CT scans before discharge or within 2 weeks after surgery to evaluate the fracture reduction quality.

Follow a standardized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) rehabilitation pathway and attend scheduled follow-up visits at 1, 3, and 6 months after the surgery to monitor bone healing, hip functions, and quality of life

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Rate of Excellent or Good Closed Fracture Reduction Assessed by Postoperative Low-Dose CT-Based 3D Quantitative Reduction Grading Criteria — From completion of surgery to postoperative low-dose CT assessment, assessed up to 2 weeks after surgery
  Closed fracture reduction will be assessed on postoperative low-dose CT using a 3D quantitative grading system. Four dimensions will be graded as Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor: displacement/shortening, angular deformity, rotational deformity, and medial/anterior cortical support. The thresholds are ≤3 mm/° for Excellent, \>3-5 mm/° for Good, \>5-10 mm/° for Fair, and \>10 mm/° for Poor, while cortical support is graded as positive, neutral, mild negative, or significant negative/step-off. The final grade will be the lowest grade across all dimensions, and the excellent/good rate is the percentage of participants with a final grade of Excellent or Good.

Trial sites (1)

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