[Collaboration between the geriatrician and the surgeon: a major contribution for the aged patient in rehabilitation].

BACKGROUND

Subtrochanteric fractures are complex fractures requiring prudent reeducation. In elderly patients who also have other illnesses, reeducation of walking may be quite difficult.

CASE REPORT: An 89-year-old woman was referred for physical therapy after osteosynthesis of a comminutive subtrochanteric fracture. Weight bearing was contraindicated for 3 months due to her "incapacity to perform reeducation exercises". The patient also had several serious co-morbidities which had to be integrated into the reeducation program.

DISCUSSION: In cases of complex fractures, reeducation must take into account other comorbid conditions. Outcome can be favorable, but requires a well organized interdisciplinary approach associating the geriatrics and the orthopedics teams.