Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
The hip joint, a vital component of the body’s mobility, comprises the femur’s head (the ball) and the acetabulum’s cup-shaped socket. Here’s an in-depth exploration of hip fractures:
Anatomy and Types of Hip Fractures
The femur’s upper part, housing the greater and lesser trochanters, is prone to fractures near the hip joint. These fractures can occur in various regions:
- Femoral neck fracture: A break in the femur’s neck.
- Intertrochanteric fracture: Located between the greater and lesser trochanters.
- Subtrochanteric fracture: Beneath the lesser trochanter.
Causes of Hip Fractures
Elderly individuals with weakened bones are susceptible to hip fractures, often resulting from minor trauma. Conversely, high-energy trauma can cause fractures in younger individuals. Prolonged use of certain medications also heightens fracture risk.
Signs and Symptoms
Manifestations of a hip fracture may include:
- Groin or outer thigh pain
- Swelling and tenderness
- Discomfort during hip rotation
- Leg shortening
- Outward or inward rotation of the foot and knee
Diagnosis
X-rays are commonly used to diagnose hip fractures, with additional imaging techniques like MRI employed for precise evaluation. Fractures are categorized based on femur involvement into intracapsular, intertrochanteric, or subtrochanteric.
Treatment Options
Treatment strategies depend on factors like patient health and fracture severity:
- Non-operative methods: Traction may be employed if surgery is unsuitable. Skeletal traction utilizes screws, pins, and wires to align bones via a pulley system.
- Surgical interventions: Various surgical techniques, including external fixation, intramedullary fixation, or plate and screw fixation, aim to correct and stabilize fractures, facilitating optimal healing.
Our clinic prioritizes comprehensive care for hip fractures, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs for effective recovery and restoration of mobility.
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