Hip Fracture – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
When someone arrives with hip or groin pain, health professionals look for signs like an unusual leg position or trouble moving the hip. They often use a regular X-ray first to check for any break in the bone.
If pain continues but the X-ray does not show a clear break, doctors may order more detailed tests. These tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or bone scans, can find small or hidden fractures that a standard X-ray might miss.
Common Locations of Broken Hips
Most hip fractures happen in certain spots along the upper thigh bone.
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Femoral Neck | Found just below the ball part of the hip joint; breaks here can make moving the leg painful. |
| Intertrochanteric Area | Sits further down from the hip joint, in the part of the bone that sticks outward. |
Knowing the fracture’s location helps the medical team choose the right treatment. The type and position of the fracture guide recovery steps.
Treatment
Surgical Procedures
Doctors usually perform surgery for most hip injuries that involve a break in the bone. The operation’s details depend on the fracture’s type and position, the person’s age, and other health conditions.
Types of Surgical Procedures:
| Procedure | Description | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Metal screws or plates | Surgeons connect and hold the bone with special metal devices while it heals. | Less severe breaks |
| Partial hip replacement | Surgeons replace only the top part of the thighbone with an artificial piece. | Older adults or people with other illnesses |
| Total hip replacement | Surgeons replace both the top of the thighbone and the hip socket with artificial parts. | Healthier, more active adults |
The surgeon decides which method to use based on whether the hip bones stayed in place or shifted after the break.
Types of Repairs
Doctors select tools and methods based on the injury’s details. Sometimes, they use specialized screws, rods, or plates to hold bones together.
If the injury damages blood flow to part of the hip, doctors may suggest a replacement. For older people, especially those with certain hip fractures, doctors may recommend replacing all or part of the joint.
Artificial joints, called prostheses, can help people return to moving sooner.
Repair Choices:
- Screws, plates, or rods for holding bones together
- Artificial replacements for damaged joint parts
Choosing the right repair depends on both the bone’s condition and the patient’s overall health.
Recovery and Support After Surgery
Rehabilitation starts soon after surgery to help the patient heal and regain movement. Physical therapy often begins with simple exercises to improve movement and make the hip stronger.
The plan may include learning new ways to do daily tasks, such as using the toilet, bathing, and dressing. An occupational therapist may teach the patient how to adjust after surgery.
The patient may need equipment like a walker or wheelchair for a while. Rehab aims to help the patient become as independent as possible, whether they return home or need extra care at a facility.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
How the Visit May Go
During the appointment, the provider asks questions to understand the injury and your overall health.
They may ask if you recently fell or injured your hip. They review the amount of pain, your ability to walk, and any other illnesses or surgeries.
A table like the one below can help you keep track of important information to share:
| Information | Details to Prepare |
|---|---|
| Pain level | Mild, Moderate, or Severe |
| Recent injuries | Yes/No; describe if yes |
| Other health conditions | List any conditions |
| Medications/vitamins taken | List all |
| Family bone health history | Any fractures or osteoporosis |
