Reducing morbidity and mortality in the hip fracture patient group

Abstract

A review of the literature was undertaken to determine which amenable factors could be identified that would potentially improve the morbidity or mortality after hip fracture. Only four factors were identified that have been clearly reported to be associated with a reduction in mortality or morbidity, these were early surgery, cemented arthroplasty and experience of the surgeon and peri-operative antibiotics. Five interventions were identified that may reduce mortality or morbidity: nerve blocks, nutritional support, pharmacological thromboembolic prophylaxis, mechanical intermittent pneumatic compression and nail fixation of extracapsular fractures. Several other factors were identified for which it remains uncertain if they will reduce mortality or morbidity: preoperative assessment, β-blockers, blood transfusion, anti-embolism stockings, choice of surgical implant, cardiac output monitoring during surgery, choice of anaesthesia, prevention of intraoperative hypotension, anabolic steroids, multidisciplinary care, and rehabilitation. Continuing research is required to define which interventions are clearly effective and to further identify any adverse effects.