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Complications of a Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a serious injury that requires immediate medical attention. Hip fractures are more common in people (especially women) over age 65. Although hip fractures are treatable, certain complications are potentially fatal.

  1. Conditions that Lead to & Complicate Hip Fractures

    • Older adults are more likely to fracture a hip because of other conditions, such as osteoporosis, dizziness and balance problems.The elderly may also have weak muscles and impaired vision.

      Many older people who fracture a hip may already suffer from brain disorders and have problems thinking clearly. Sometimes, surgery can exacerbate mental confusion.

    Surgery Related Complications

    • Surgery is the primary treatment for a hip fracture. The type of operation will depend on your specific type of fracture.

      The National Institute of Health says a common complication during hip fracture surgery is a blood clot in the leg which can lead to a blood clot in the lungs.

      If you also have an illness that makes it unsafe to undergo surgery to repair your fractured hip, your doctor may use a tension system (traction) to help your hip heal.

    Pulmonary Embolism

    • The risk of traction is that it keeps you immobile for a long period, during which time it's possible for a blood clot to become lodged in a pulmonary artery, blocking blood flow to lung tissue. This condition, called pulmonary embolism, can be fatal.

    Other Immobility-Related Complications

    • The Mayo Clinic says hip fracture patients who have been immobile for extended periods are prone to bed sores, urinary tract infections, muscle deterioration and pneumonia.

      Additionally, people who've had one hip fracture have a greater risk of having another one.

    Get Moving as Soon as Possible

    • It is advisable to get out of bed and move your body as soon as your are able. Most complications that develop following hip fracture surgery are due to extended periods of inactivity. You'll need to use a walking aid such as a cane, crutches or walker.

    Recovering From a Hip Fracture

    • A long period of rehabilitation lies ahead as you begin to recovery from a hip fracture. Gradually, you will be able to place additional weight on your hip until it can painlessly support your full weight. You'll have to re-learn how to sit, stand and walk to avoid further injury to your hip.

    Medications for Hip Fractures

    • The Mayo Clinic says a 2007 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that annual infusions with the intravenous medication zoledronic acid (Reclast, Zometa) could prove to be beneficial treatment for hip fractures.

      When zoledronic acid was started no later than 90 days after the fracture occurred, the rates of new fractures decreased and the chances of survival increased.

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