Description

A hip fracture is a break in the femur (thigh bone). The is fracture is classified by the area on the femur that is fractured: femoral head, femoral neck, intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric areas can be fractured.

What are the causes?

Patients that are older or those with weakened bone (osteoporosis, osteopenia, tumors, etc.) are susceptible to fracture after trauma or falls.

What are the symptoms?

Patients with hip fractures have pain and loss of function, including the ability to walk. After a few days, swelling and bruising may extend down the entire leg. Patients will often experience clicking when they try to move their hip.

How is it diagnosed?

Your surgeon will perform a physical exam and obtain X-rays. Your surgeon may order additional diagnostic tests to evaluate the fracture better (CT/”CAT” scan) to better evaluate the bone or MRI to evaluate the muscles, tendons and ligaments.

How is it treated?

Non-operative

Non-operative treatment for hip fractures is not recommended. Surgery may be delayed if other injuries or medical condition preclude the surgery at the time of injury.

Operative

Hip fracture repair is dependent on the area of the hip that is fractured. Fracture repair may include using screws, a plate and screws, a rod that is inserted into the femur or a hip replacement. The type of surgery should be discussed with your surgeon. Postoperative medication to prevent blood clots and reduce pain may be prescribed by your surgeon. Activity modification and physical therapy is at your surgeon’s discretion.