Hip Fracture
Most hip fractures occur in elderly patients whose bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, and the forces of everyday activities make injury easier. In the case of younger patients, a fracture of this nature usually results from a high-energy event, such as falls from significant heights or motor vehicle collision.
Hip fractures usually result in injury to one of four areas at the top of the femur: the femoral neck, the intertrochanteric area, the subtrochanteric area and the femoral head. They are usually very painful and cause pain in the groin, limiting mobility and, in more severe cases, leading to total disability.
In most cases, an orthopedist or traumatologist can diagnose a fracture based on the symptoms and the abnormal position of the hip and leg. An X-ray would be sufficient to confirm its exact location, however, there are cases where the fracture is not visible but the pain persists, for this you can choose to perform an MRI or a bone scan that detects fine fractures.
Treatment of hip fracture usually requires surgical intervention that can range from internal fixation with pins and plates to hip arthroplasty, which involves partial or total joint replacement. The choice of procedure depends on the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s general health status.
Generally, most patients are able to get out of bed and begin physical therapy the day after surgery. This is crucial to prevent complications such as blood clots, pneumonia and sores, as well as helping older patients avoid disorientation and deconditioning.
If you have a hip fracture contact Dr. Erika Barajas, a traumatologist and orthopedist in Tijuana for proper care.
