Patient Education: Diseases Conditions Treatments & Procedures
Hip Fracture
Overview
What is a Hip Fracture?
A hip fracture is a break in the upper end of the thighbone (femur) where it meets the pelvis. It is a common fracture in the elderly due to osteoporosis (weak bones) and an increased risk of falling (due to poor balance, poor eyesight, muscle weakness, etc.).
Surgery is often needed to “fix” the bones. Surgery reduces the amount of pain felt and allows people to get up out of bed and move around the day after surgery. This early movement reduces the risk of serious complications like blood clots, infections and bedsores that can happen after being in bed too long. In the surgery, pieces of metal (screws) may be used to hold the broken bones together. Sometimes part or all of the joint may need to be replaced to repair the break. This surgery is called arthroplasty.
