Which type of femoral neck stress fracture carries a higher rate of complications?

A femoral neck stress fracture on the tension side, which is the lateral aspect, carries a higher rate of complications due to several factors. This type of fracture is particularly concerning because it is more prone to displacement. When a stress fracture occurs on the tension side, it may compromise the blood supply to the femoral head, which can lead to complications such as nonunion or avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

In contrast, compression side fractures (on the medial side) typically have a better prognosis because they are less likely to displace, and the vascular supply to the femoral head tends to remain intact. The mechanical forces acting on the femoral neck can be managed more effectively when the fracture is on the compression side, thus reducing the likelihood of complications arising from displacement.

The distinction between these two types of stress fractures is crucial for clinicians, as selecting the appropriate management strategy heavily depends on understanding the risks associated with each fracture type. This includes the potential for delayed healing or complications that can arise if the fracture worsens. The tension side fracture's increased risk underscores the importance of careful monitoring and potential surgical intervention in those cases.