Management of trochanteric fractures in elderly patients

Abstract

Background. Trochanteric fracture involves greater/lesser trochanters of femur mainly affecting elderly due to osteoporosis with serious risk of loss of independence. It affects over 1.5 million people worldwide were the absolute majority fall in risk of morbidity and mortality. The objective of the study. to analyze the proper treatment of trochanteric fractures in elderly patients. Material and methods. The study presents a retrospective analysis of clinical and radiological data of 30 patients with trochanteric fractures in the Department of traumatology nr.2, Institute of Emergency Medicine during the year 2023. There were 19 females (63,3%) and 11 males (36,7%) aged from 58 till 90, the mean age was 74 years. All the patients underwent a complex examination including X-rays, ECG, consultation of traumatologist and other specialists. Low energy trauma was the cause of trochanteric fractures in 29 cases, traffic accident – 1. According to Evans classification there was a domination of type III and V fractures (87%). Results. The patients underwent complex and individual treatment according to fracture type, age, comorbidities. Surgical treatment was performed in 23 cases (77%) by ORIF (with bone graft in 1 case) that allowed early rehabilitation of the patients and prevention of complications. Antiosteoporosis treatment (Ca +vitamin D, antiresorptive drugs) was recommended to continue in outpatient department, active lifestyle, prophylaxis of recurrent fractures. Conclusions. Treatment of osteoporotic trochanteric fractures should be done without any delay to decrease the mortality rate and to improve the independence and quality of patient’s life.