Boyd and Griffin Classification
The Boyd and Griffin classification is a historical system used for intertrochanteric hip fractures, specifically designed to categorize these proximal femur injuries and guide treatment decisions 1.
Purpose and Application
This classification system categorizes intertrochanteric fractures of the hip into distinct types based on fracture pattern and stability. The system was originally developed in 1949 and has undergone refinement to better address the complexity of these injuries 1.
Key Features
The classification specifically addresses intertrochanteric fractures, which occur in the region between the greater and lesser trochanters of the proximal femur 1
Type II fractures have been further subdivided into three sub-groups to provide more precise categorization and better predict fracture stability 1
The refined classification incorporates understanding of coronal plane fracture patterns and the behavior of compressed cancellous bone, which are critical factors in determining fracture stability 1
Clinical Utility
The system allows for better understanding of what constitutes an unstable hip fracture, which is essential for surgical planning and predicting outcomes 1
It provides a more physiological approach to understanding these injuries, helping surgeons anticipate complications and select appropriate fixation methods 1
Context in Modern Practice
While the Boyd and Griffin classification remains a recognized system for intertrochanteric fractures, it represents an older approach to fracture classification. Modern orthopedic trauma has evolved toward more comprehensive systems like the AO/OTA classification, which provides unified coding across all skeletal injuries with improved reliability and international standardization 2. However, the Boyd and Griffin system's focus on intertrochanteric fracture patterns continues to have historical and educational value in understanding hip fracture biomechanics 1.