HIP FRACTURES
What is a Hip Fracture?
A bone fracture is a medical condition in which a bone is cracked or broken. It is a break in the continuity of the bone.
The word “Fracture” implies a broken bone. A bone may get fractured completely or partially.
While many fractures result from high-force impacts or stress, bone fractures can also occur because of certain medical conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis.
Who Are Affected By Bone Fractures?
Bone Fracturing of the Hip can affect anyone who experiences trauma, and common causes of trauma are to
- Falls,
- Motor vehicle accident. or
- Sports.
People at higher risk of Hip bone fractures include
- Athletes - Overuse injuries are a common cause of stress fractures.
- Elderly - Thinning of the bone due to osteoporosis can also cause the bone to break easily.
- Young people and individuals who perform repeated stressful activities (running, jogging, and athletes),
- Obese individuals,
- Individuals with flat feet,
- Women who wear high-heeled shoes and
- Elderly people with arthritis are also at a higher risk of falling injuries including fractures.
How is a Fracture Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of a fracture is made by taking a complete history and performing a complete physical examination.
Additionally, the doctor may employ one or more imaging methods to confirm or rule out any differential diagnosis that causes similar pain. These procedures may include:
- X-rays, lateral and external oblique views,
- Computerised Topographic (CT) scan of the affected area,
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or
- Ultrasound of the affected area.
After a clear diagnosis is obtained, suitable treatment can follow.
Fracture Healing
Our body reacts to fractures by protecting the injured area with a blood clot and callus or fibrous tissue.
Bone cells begin forming on either side of the fracture line. These cells grow towards each other and thus close the fracture.
Surgical Therapy
Surgery may be required in the treatment of some Fractures. This surgery can involve:
- Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation (CRIF) - This procedure involves reducing the fracture back to the anatomic position and fixing it in place with a prothesis. Internal fixation is done with devices such as intra-medullary nails.
- Replacement surgery - If the fracture is displaced and high risk of mal-union or avascular necrosis, it is better to replace the hip than try to fix it. Replacement allows early mobilisation without the pain of the fracture.
Rehabilitation
Fractures may take several weeks to months to heal completely.
Most elderly people who have a hip fracture will require inpatient rehabilitation if they are attempting to return to living independently in the community.
