Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the femur (thigh bone) that fits into the socket of the pelvis to form the hip joint. It is a serious injury that can significantly impact a person's mobility and quality of life.

Types of Hip Fractures

• Intracapsular fracture: This type of fracture occurs within the capsule that surrounds the hip joint. It can be further divided into two subtypes:
  • Femoral neck fracture: a break in the narrow part of the femur just below the ball of the hip joint.
  • Subcapital fracture: a break at the top of the femur, just below the head of the bone.
• Extracapsular fracture: This type of fracture occurs outside the capsule that surrounds the hip joint. It can be further divided into two subtypes:
  • Intertrochanteric fracture: a break in the area where the femur meets the pelvis, between the greater and lesser trochanters.
  • Subtrochanteric fracture: a break below the lesser trochanter, in the shaft of the femur.

Causes and Risk Factors

Hip fractures can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Falls: The most common cause of hip fractures, especially in older adults.
• Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to breaks.
• High-impact trauma: Such as from a car accident or sports injury.
• Cancer: Weakened bones due to cancer can increase the risk of hip fractures.
• Age: The risk of hip fracture increases with age, especially after the age of 65.
• Gender: Women are more likely than men to experience a hip fracture, especially after menopause.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a hip fracture may include:

• Pain in the hip or groin area
• Difficulty moving the affected leg
• Shortening of the affected leg
• External rotation of the affected leg
• Swelling and bruising around the hip area

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of a hip fracture is typically made using:

• Physical examination: A doctor will examine the hip and leg to check for signs of a fracture.
• Imaging tests: Such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to confirm the presence and location of the fracture.

Treatment

The treatment for a hip fracture typically involves:

• Surgery: To repair or replace the broken bone. The type of surgery will depend on the location and severity of the fracture.
• Pain management: Medications to manage pain and discomfort.
• Physical therapy: To help regain strength and mobility in the affected leg.

Complications

Complications of a hip fracture may include:

• Blood clots: Can form in the legs or lungs due to prolonged immobility.
• Infection: Can occur after surgery or if the wound becomes infected.
• Avascular necrosis: The death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, which can lead to further complications.
• Nonunion or malunion: The bone may not heal properly, leading to ongoing pain and mobility issues.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of hip fractures, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly to strengthen bones and improve balance
• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Avoid falls by removing tripping hazards and using assistive devices if necessary
• Get regular bone density tests to monitor for osteoporosis