[The current state of the background, incidence, and treatment strategies of hip fractures].

Hip fractures are typical injuries among old and very old patients. Their incidence is particularly high and strongly correlates with increasing age. While a significant rise in fracture rates was projected for the late 20th century and subsequent decades, available literature data since then have presented mixed findings. Although an absolute increase in fracture numbers was observed, in many developed regions a decline in incidence has also been noted. The epidemiology of hip injuries is relatively complex. Beyond factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, hereditary and acquired diseases, and certain drug therapies, geographical and social factors – including urbanization – also play a clearly demonstrable role. The most fundamental principle in the therapeutic algorithm for hip fractures is striving for the earliest and most complete restoration of patient mobility, thereby reducing the high complication rates associated with immobilization. However, treating old and very old patients cannot be based only on trauma principles. For these individuals, concurrent interdisciplinary geriatric therapy as well as proper rehabilitation and nursing care are of great importance. Given the frequency of periarticular hip injuries – as their role is significant in the daily emergency practice as well as in every other subspecialty that includes the care of the elderly – it is essential to understand their epidemiological background and the fundamentals of treatment options. This knowledge can facilitate early and adequate recognition of injuries as well as prompt and appropriate therapy. The aim of this review is to provide a general and comprehensive overview, thereby expanding current knowledge on hip fractures based on the latest available literature. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(30): 1163–1171.