Results of operative treatment of hip fractures in patients over 90.

BACKGROUND

The number of people living more than 90 years is increasing. This population is at high risk of osteoporotic hip fracture and the rates of a good outcome after surgical treatment are lower than in younger patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate psychophysical status and survival time following hip fracture surgery in nonagenarians.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Forty-two nonagenarian patients included in the study were assessed retrospectively using our own 16-point scale. Evaluation was made on several occasions: prior to injury, at discharge from the hospital and during a follow-up examination, at least 6 months after surgery. Medical data were obtained from medical records and from telephone information given by patients, their family members, carers or social welfare employees. Statistical analyses were performed using average point values and standard deviations.

RESULTS

48% of the operated patients died within 1-9 months after surgery. Considerable deterioration of psychophysical status following surgery was reported for 24% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Operative treatment in patients 90 years of age and over with hip fractures was associated with a good outcome, i.e. the recovery of psychophysical status comparable to that prior to the injury, only in 36% of the patients.