Fractures of the hip in the institutionalized psychotic patient. A mortality and morbidity survey of 106 cases.

Fractures of the hip and its resultant mortality are a reflection of age more than any other factor. The death and morbidity in this poor risk patient group with multiple medical problems can be significantly lowered by the generalized use of prophylactic antibiotics and thromboembolic protection. Stabilization of intertrochanteric fractures at the time of surgery with stronger implants, displacement osteotomy, and the judicious use of bone cement, along with primary replacement of displaced subcapital fractures allows the patient earlier ambulation before the skills of walking have been forgotten.