Characterization of Preceding Fragility Fractures in Patients With Hip Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of 200 Cases
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.6.2110Keywords:
Osteoporosis, fragility fractures, hip fracturesAbstract
Introduction: Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by decreased bone density that increases the
risk of fractures, particularly in older adults. The objectives of this study were to document the
frequency of fragility fractures preceding a hip fracture, the prevalence of each type of fracture,
and the percentage of patients diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis prior to sustaining a hip
fracture.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in patients aged >65 years who underwent surgery for hip fracture between 2022 and 2023 at a single site, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Variables analyzed included age, sex, fracture type and treatment, prior diagnosis of osteoporosis, and the anatomical sites of preceding fragility fractures.
Results: Two hundred patients were included (159 women and 41 men; mean age 83.04 years). Sixty patients (30%) had sustained a fragility fracture before the hip fracture. The most common locations were the contralateral hip (9%), spine (8%), and distal radius (6.5%). Of these patients, 48.33% had a prior diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Conclusions: Thirty percent of patients experienced fragility fractures (also referred to as sentinel fractures) prior to a hip fracture. Implementing preventive strategies for diagnosis and treatment in this population is crucial to reduce the risk of subsequent fractures and improve quality of life.
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