hip fractures in the elderly in the elderly is one of the most common procedures in the country, especially among the elderly. Despite its frequency, doubts about the intervention persist, especially regarding its indication, risks and recovery time.
One of the reasons why the elderly are a group prone to hip surgery is falls. In addition, this group is exposed to other diseases that lead to cartilage wear. Surgery is recommended precisely to mitigate this impact.
As with any other surgical procedure, there is no doubt about the risks involved in the operation. However, Medicine is one of the areas that is evolving the most, and with it, surgical techniques and technologies.
Therefore, hip surgery in the elderly becomes safer and recovery faster.
Find out what the main types of hip surgery are
There are two categories of hip surgery in the elderly : surgery to treat osteoarthritis, known as hip arthroplasty, and fracture correction.
Arthroplasty or hip replacement surgery is a procedure that removes a joint with wear or loss of cartilage and replaces it with an artificial joint, i.e. a prosthesis .
The main objective of surgery is, without a doubt, to guarantee the patient’s quality of life by restoring movement to the joint and eliminating pain.
Hip arthroplasty has been performed since the 1960s. In addition to being quick and safe, the procedure produces good results, a significant factor for elderly patients.
Remembering that, although it also affects young individuals, joint wear is more common in the elderly .
Fracture correction
Falls are certainly associated with most cases of hip fractures in the elderly . Their severity depends mainly on the degree of osteoporosis presented by the patient.
The first symptom of a fractured hip is a deep pain in the side of the hip or in the groin.
It is very important to emphasize that a hip fracture is considered serious, since the patient may need to spend some time in bed recovering. The condition increases the likelihood of sequelae, especially those linked to risk factors inherent to elderly people.
Surgery is usually the most recommended treatment for a hip fracture.
Although this can cause some anxiety, the good news is that it allows patients to recover their movements more quickly, reducing the amount of time they need to rest. Obviously, complications such as pneumonia, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and ulcers are substantially reduced in likelihood.
When is hip surgery indicated?
First of all, it is mandatory that the patient be evaluated by an orthopedist . The purpose of the consultation is to correctly indicate the surgical procedure based on the diagnosis.
To reach a conclusion, the professional considers the patient’s history, in addition to prescribing physical and imaging exams.
The main benefits provided by hip surgery in the elderly
When it comes to hip surgery in the elderly, the tendency is to ask more about the risks than to talk about the benefits, which, by the way, are many.
From a brief historical overview, we can remember that when an elderly person suffered from hip problems, they ended up having to use wheelchairs or walkers.
Nowadays, with the evolution of surgical techniques, the advantages of this procedure are much more notable. Starting with providing autonomy, freedom and quality of life after surgery .
Therefore, it is safe to say that surgery is well indicated whenever the risks of a permanent restriction caused by wear and tear, or a fracture, are greater than the risk of the procedure itself.
Therefore, we can highlight the following as the main benefits of surgical treatment:
- Mobility made easier thanks to reduced pain.
- Faster return to normal activities after rehabilitation.
- As there is no need to recover lying down, there is a lower incidence of changes in decubitus, that is, in the position of the immobilized patient.
- Consequent improvement in cardiac and pulmonary functions.
- Reduction in the risk of complications.
When we look at the safer, less invasive procedures being performed today, the benefits become even greater.
Let’s talk about the risks of hip surgery in the elderly?
Orthopedic surgical procedures account for a significant portion of what is performed in Brazilian hospitals, especially those caused by trauma.
That said, we always emphasize the evolution of surgical techniques , substantially reducing post-operative problems. However, as with any surgical procedure, they still exist. Among the most common are:
- Thrombosis: blood clots in the blood vessels formed by immobilization. This is an occurrence, however, that can be avoided with early rehabilitation, in addition to the use of anticoagulants and elastic stockings.
- Pneumonia: an incident that can also be avoided with adequate rehabilitation.
- Infections: linked to the patient’s nutritional and clinical stability. Patients with decompensated diabetes require greater care.
- Heart problems: one of the main post-surgical problems, mainly due to heart failure and decompensation. Hence the need for medical monitoring in order to carry out a complete pre-operative assessment, with analysis of the patient’s history and exams.
- Kidney problems: Patients with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, are more prone. However, pre-surgical examinations and prompt interventions reduce the risks.
Again, we emphasize that these are risks recorded in a minimal portion of patients. It is crucial, however, that the person receives proper medical monitoring both before and after the procedure. This includes control of pre-existing comorbidities, treatment and exams.
Average recovery time from fractures in the elderly
The type of procedure performed will determine the recovery time for hip surgery in the elderly . After hip replacement surgery, for example, the patient is usually released for daily activities within 30 to 60 days. Before that, however, they are encouraged to walk with a walker.
For comparison purposes, when the fracture is treated with a plate or screws, the recovery time is longer. Just to give an example, it takes two to three months to be able to walk, the same time it takes for the fracture to heal.
Once again, we emphasize the need for an orthopedic professional to monitor elderly patients undergoing a surgical procedure. Such care is essential for proper recovery without scares.
Get informed to make your decision safely
As we have seen, hip surgeries in the elderly are common orthopedic procedures, considering their propensity for fractures and osteoarthritis.
It is important to emphasize that complications in this type of surgery are increasingly rare, despite the minimal risks inherent to any surgical procedure. This is a result of less invasive techniques and early rehabilitation.
Strict medical monitoring, however, is necessary to reduce these risks and lead the patient to a faster recovery.
Even though risks are always the first factor to be questioned, it is important to highlight the benefits that hip surgery provides in the elderly, especially in ensuring quality of life and autonomy.
Therefore, we can even calculate the risks, since they are minimal and kept under control. The advantages, on the other hand, are immeasurable, since only the patient can distinguish the value of having their autonomy and quality of life back.
Conclusion
Hip fractures in the elderly are a serious health concern that can lead to significant complications, including loss of independence, increased morbidity, and mortality. Understanding the risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment options is essential for caregivers, healthcare providers, and the elderly themselves. By fostering awareness and implementing proactive measures, we can reduce the incidence of hip fractures and improve the overall quality of life for older adults. Early intervention and comprehensive rehabilitation can facilitate recovery and help individuals regain their mobility and independence.
FAQs
1. What are the common causes of hip fractures in the elderly?
Common causes include falls, osteoporosis, and weakened bones due to aging.
2. What are the symptoms of a hip fracture?
Symptoms may include severe pain in the hip or groin, inability to move the leg, and visible deformity.
3. How are hip fractures treated in the elderly?
Treatment often involves surgical options like hip replacement or internal fixation, followed by rehabilitation and physical therapy.
4. What can be done to prevent hip fractures in older adults?
Preventive measures include strength training, balance exercises, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and home safety modifications.
5. What is the recovery process like after a hip fracture?
Recovery typically involves surgery, followed by rehabilitation to regain mobility and strength, with support from healthcare providers and physical therapists.
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