Hip fracture

Hip fracture is the most common cause of hospitalization in orthopedic services. This fracture is a break in the femur (thigh bone) of the hip joint. Joints are areas where two or more bones meet. The hip joint is a cavity, in which the femur meets the pelvic bone. Hip fracture is a serious injury and requires immediate medical attention. Patients suffering from this disease may suffer serious complications, ranging from varying degrees of disability to a complete loss of their independence.

The incidence of hip fracture increases with age, people over 60 are more likely to suffer from this disease due to weakening of the bones, commonly caused by osteoporosis. Most fractures result from falls or stumbles, however, about 5% have no history of trauma. There are several risk factors that can increase a person's chances of developing this fracture. Osteoporosis is the principal cause because it decreases the strength of the skeleton. Moreover, other factors are added such as height, low body weight, physical inactivity, and excess caffeine consumption, among others. When the patient goes to a hospital, commonly complain of severe pain in the affected hip and has difficulty or inability to walk. They also tend to have bruising and swelling in the area. It is extremely important to treat the symptoms early to avoid the difficulties continue to increase.

The diagnosis is based on a physical examination and radiographic studies. In most cases, the radiography is able to determine if there is a fracture. In addition, the diagnosis may include other techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography. After the diagnosis, it is possible to identify the type of fracture that the patient has, fractures classified as intra-capsular or extra-capsular. Early detection of an intra-capsular fracture is very important, because this type of fracture is prone to complications.

The goal of treatment is to return the patient to their functionality level. Usually, this objective is achieved by surgery. The orthopedic treatment can be considered in patients whose previous functionality can be achieved without surgery. However, the majority of hip fractures are treated surgically. The type of surgery performed depends on the characteristics of the fracture and careful assessment of the patient. The types of treatment available are: an osteosynthesis of femoral neck or replacement prostheses (partial or total). On the other hand, the goal of care after surgery for hip fracture is getting people to remain standing safely and walk again. At first, it requires the patient to rest. Subsequently, various mobilization strategies are used, including gait retraining and exercise programs and electrical stimulation.

In conclusion, to prevent a hip fracture, it is recommended that a person drink large amounts of calcium. It is also very important to do exercises that support the body weight, such as walking or jogging regularly.

Bibliography:

Handoll, H. H., Sherrington, C., & Mak, J. C. (2011, marzo 16). Interventions to improve mobility after hip fracture surgery in adults.

Muñoz, S., Lavanderos, J., Vilches, L., Delgado, M., Carcamo, K., Passalaqua, S., & Guarda, M. (2008). "Fractura de cadera". "Cuadernos de cirugía (Valdivia)", vol.22, 73 - 81.