Hip Fracture Treatment and Surgery in Long Island

Hip fractures can be caused by a number of things. They are most commonly caused by slips and falls and can occur in the elderly with osteoporosis. However, hip fractures can also be caused by trauma, which can include being involved in a car accident or sustaining a sports injury.

Elderly adults, specifically those 65 or older, are usually at the highest risk of having a fractured hip. Women are also more likely to experience a hip fracture than men. This is because women tend to lose more bone density as they age. People who suffer from osteoporosis and have a history of falling may have an increased risk of a hip fracture.

Anyone who has poor general health, such as heart disease, lung disease, or infections, may not be suitable candidates for hip fracture surgery. Elderly people with severe health issues or who are frail are not good candidates for this operation due to the increased risk of complications.

Hip fractures can be treated through a variety of methods.

Below are the different types of treatment methods for hip fractures:

Surgical Repair - Most hip fractures typically require surgery to stabilize the bones. There are multiple types of surgical techniques to correct the issue. These include internal fixation, hip replacement, and external fixation. The technique used depends on the severity of the fracture.
Non-surgical Treatments - Depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient, non-surgical treatments may be considered. These treatments can include traction, which is when pulleys and weights are used to gently realign the hip bones, pain management, and mobility aids.

There are various ways you can prevent a hip fracture from occurring, which can be changing up your lifestyle or taking more proactive safety measures. Eating a diet rich in calcium, which can be dairy products and leafy greens. You can also strengthen your hip by doing weight-bearing exercises. Avoiding harmful substances, such as tobacco and alcohol, can prevent your bones from becoming weaker.

If you are looking to have hip surgery, it is important for you to know what to expect from the recovery process. While the recovery process is different for every patient, you can expect to remain in the hospital for a few days. Most patients can expect to remain in the hospital for about three to five days.

Your doctor will give you detailed instructions about what you can and cannot do during your recovery. For example, you cannot cross your legs, nor can you turn your affected hip to a 90-degree angle. These actions can greatly impede your recovery.

Once you are discharged, you will have to wait about a month or so to resume light activities. People who receive hip fracture surgery can see a full recovery in about four months to a year.

Hip fractures are serious injuries, particularly in older adults, and are primarily categorized based on the location of the fracture in the hip. The main types include:

• Intracapsular Fractures: These occur within the capsule of the hip joint, including subcapital, transcervical, and basicervical fractures.
• Intertrochanteric Fractures: These are located between the neck and the shaft of the femur, in the area below the end of the femoral neck.
• Subtrochanteric Fractures: These occur just below the trochanter region, an area filled with dense bone that is a common site for stress fractures.

Understanding the type of hip fracture helps determine the most appropriate surgical approach and rehabilitation plan.

Complications from hip fractures can range from acute to long-term issues, including:

• Blood Clots: Due to immobilization, patients are at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
• Infections: Surgical site or urinary tract infections can occur, especially in elderly patients.
• Pressure Ulcers: Prolonged bed rest might lead to skin breakdown and ulcers.
• Osteonecrosis: Compromised blood supply to the hip bone can lead to bone tissue death.
• Persistent Pain and Mobility Issues: Some patients may experience ongoing pain and reduced mobility even after treatment.

Prompt and effective treatment minimizes these risks and promotes a better outcome.

Rehabilitation after hip surgery is crucial for recovery and typically follows a phased approach:

• Early Mobilization: Starting physical therapy as soon as medically feasible helps improve mobility.
• Strength Training: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint.
• Balance and Gait Training: To improve stability and walking ability.
• Functional Training: Focus on activities of daily living to regain independence.

Each plan is tailored to your health status, age, and overall fitness.

Nutrition plays a key role in bone health, particularly nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein:

• Calcium and Vitamin D: Essential for bone density and strength. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods are excellent sources.
• Protein: Important for muscle and bone repair. Includes sources like lean meats, beans, and nuts.
• Magnesium and Vitamin K: Support bone health by enhancing calcium absorption and aiding in bone mineralization.

A balanced diet can help speed recovery and enhance the healing process.

Follow-up care is vital to monitor healing and prevent complications. This typically involves:

• Regular Check-ups: To assess bone healing and implant stability.
• Monitoring for Complications: Early detection of infections or DVT.
• Medication Management: Adjusting pain relievers and anticoagulants.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on activity levels and avoiding falls.

Ongoing assessment ensures that any issues are promptly addressed.

Choosing Orthopedic Associates of Long Island for your hip fracture treatment ensures you receive care from a team of board-certified surgeons who are specialists in the field. Our practice uses the latest surgical techniques to ensure minimal invasiveness and optimal recovery. We provide individualized care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient, coupled with comprehensive on-site physical therapy services designed to restore mobility and strength. Additionally, we offer ongoing patient education and support throughout the recovery process. Opting for our facility means opting for top-tier care that is focused on getting you back to your life safely and quickly.