A critical review of the long-term disability outcomes following hip fracture

Global, regional, and national burdens of hip fractures in elderly individuals from 1990 to 2021 and predictions up to 2050: A systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

PURPOSE

We aimed to analyse the global, regional, and national burdens of hip fractures in older adults from 1990 to 2021, with projections to 2050, on the basis of data from the GBD 2021 study.

METHODS

We employed a joinpoint model to analyse trends in the burden of hip fractures from 1990‒2021. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was used to quantify temporal trends over this period. We evaluated the relationship between the social development index and the burden of hip fracture in elderly people and conducted a health inequality analysis. Additionally, we applied Long-short Term Memory (LSTM) networks to forecast burden trends of hip fractures up to 2050.

RESULTS

The global age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) for hip fractures in older adults rose from 781.56 per 100,000 in 1990 to 948.81 in 2021. The 2021 age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) was 1,894.07, and the age-standardized YLD rate (ASDR) was 173.52. From 1990 to 2021, the incidence and prevalence increased by 168.71 % and 173.07 %, respectively, while the burden of DALYs decreased. Future trends were projected via the LSTM. The burden and risk factors for hip fractures varied significantly by sex, country, and region. Population and aging are primary contributors to the rising incidence of elderly hip fractures, with falls being the leading direct cause.

CONCLUSION

From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of hip fractures in the elderly population, especially among older women, steadily increased. Population ageing highlights the urgent need for targeted public health interventions and resource allocation, including early diagnosis, effective prevention strategies, and region-specific management approaches.

Period prevalence and timing of contralateral hip fractures: An eighteen year retrospective cohort study, systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature

PURPOSE

Second contralateral hip fractures (SCHF) are relatively uncommon. The overall prevalence of this is poorly reported in literature.

METHODS

We performed a single centre retrospective cohort study in patients >50 years old who sustained a SCHF between 1st of January 2005 and 30th of April 2023. A systematic search of the literature was then performed by searching PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from the date of inception of each database through to the 22nd of February 2024. A meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of SCHF and hip fracture pattern symmetry, incorporating both our results and that previously reported in literature.

RESULTS

Our cohort study showed a period prevalence of 1.7 % within 1 year and 2.8 % within 2 years following a hip fracture. 65 studies were identified using our search strategy. The overall prevalence of SCHF was 7.3 % [95 % CI: 6.3-8.4]. Meta-regression suggested that studies conducted in Europe and North America showed higher prevalence than studies conducted in Asia. A similar fracture pattern was seen in 72.1 % [95 % CI: 69.7-74.4] of patients with SCHF.

CONCLUSION

SCHF are relatively uncommon. When they do occur, it is usually within 2 years of the index fracture. Asian populations had lower prevalence of SCHF when compared to their European and North American counterparts. Hip fracture pattern is symmetrical in most patients with a SCHF.

Effects of a subacute high-intensity rehabilitation program in older adult inpatients following intramedullary nailing for hip fractures

BACKGROUND

Subacute high-intensity rehabilitation programs play an important role in improving impairments and functional limitations in older adults who undergo hip fracture surgery. However, the effects of subacute high-intensive rehabilitation after intramedullary nailing have not been conclusively verified.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of subacute high-intensity rehabilitation on pain, motor function, and activities of daily living (ADL) in older adult inpatients after intramedullary nailing for hip fractures.

METHODS

This study included 37 older adult inpatients who had undergone intramedullary nailing for hip fractures at a restorative rehabilitation facility. All patients participated in a subacute high-intensity rehabilitation program consisting of 208 sessions (6-8 sessions/day, 30 min/session, 7 days/week) over 4 weeks during hospitalization. Dependent variables including pain, lower extremity muscle strength, balance, functional ambulation ability, and ADL, were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), and Modified Barthel Index (MBI), respectively. A paired t-test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The subacute high-intensity rehabilitation program resulted in significant differences in all dependent variables, including NRS, MMT, BBS, FAC, and MBI scores between the pre- and post-intervention (p < 0.001 to = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

This program improved physical function and independence in older adults after intramedullary nailing for hip fractures. Early implementation of such programs is recommended to enhance recovery, reduce hospital stays, and facilitate a quicker return to daily life.

Prevalence of axial spondyloarthritis among military draft-eligible populations in South Korea: national and regional trends over recent decades

INTRODUCTION

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterised by inflammation of the axial manifestations. For the military draftees, there are no epidemiological data on axSpA in nationwide and population-based databases. This retrospective, nationwide and population-based study aimed to assess the national and regional trends in axSpA prevalence among draft-eligible military populations in South Korea between 2014 and 2023.

METHODS

The study included 3 063 805 males examined by the Regional Military Manpower Administration. The annual nationwide prevalence was presented as the prevalence per 10 000 and a 95% CIs. The severity of axSpA was assessed using radiographic scoring of the sacroiliac joint based on the New York criteria. Regional trends of axSpA were evaluated for Seoul, metropolitan areas and provinces, categorised according to transportation accessibility.

RESULTS

The nationwide prevalence of axSpA increased from 10.75 (95% CI 9.68 to 11.81) in 2014 to 21.18 (95% CI 19.37 to 23.00). The prevalence of radiographic axSpA (r-axSpA) followed a similar upward trend, whereas the prevalence of non-radiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA) remained stable. The prevalence of r-axSpA (52.73% in 2015 and 79.52% in 2019) was higher than that of nr-axSpA. Meanwhile, r-axSpA patients with grade 3 sacroiliitis showed the highest prevalence during the recent 3-year follow-up. The mean regional prevalence of nr-axSpA differed significantly among the three regions (p=0.013), whereas there were no differences in the prevalence of r-axSpA (p=0.084).

CONCLUSIONS

This epidemiological study revealed an increasing trend in the nationwide prevalence of axSpA over the past decade, primarily driven by an increase in moderate-grade r-axSpA. Therefore, early recognition and awareness of axSpA in young males are essential for initiating appropriate treatment options to slow disease progression.

Effect of pelvic floor muscle combined with pulmonary rehabilitation training on lung function in elderly patients after surgery for intertrochanteric fractures of the femur: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) combined with pulmonary rehabilitation training on diaphragm function and lung function in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture.

METHODS

This study was conducted by a randomized controlled single-blind method, 50 elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture in Beijing Xiaotangshan Hospital were selected and divided into the combined training group (Experimental group, n = 25) and the lung function training group (Control group, n = 25) by the random number table method. Patients in the combined training group received pelvic floor muscle training combined with lung rehabilitation training, and patients in the lung function training group received lung rehabilitation training. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second/FVC (FEV1/FVC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were evaluated before and after intervention to analyze the improvement of lung function. Diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) and diaphragm excursion (DE) were used to observe the improvement of diaphragm function.

RESULTS

After 4 weeks of intervention, there were significant differences in lung function and diaphragm function between the two groups compared with the improvement before the intervention, but patients in the combined training group had more significant improvements in FVC, FEV1/FVC, PEF, DTF, and DE.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic floor muscle combined with lung function training can improve the diaphragm function more significantly in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture after operation, and thus affect the lung function of patients.

Effectiveness of a community-based rehabilitation programme following hip fracture: results from the Fracture in the Elderly Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation phase III (FEMuR III) randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether an enhanced community rehabilitation intervention (the Fracture in the Elderly Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation (FEMuR) intervention) was more effective than usual National Health Service care, following surgical repair of hip fracture, in terms of the recovery of activities of daily living (ADLs).

DESIGN

Definitive, pragmatic, multisite, parallel-group, two-armed, superiority randomised controlled trial with 1:1 allocation ratio.

SETTING

Participant recruitment in 13 hospitals across England and Wales, with the FEMuR intervention delivered in the community.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged over 60 years, with mental capacity, recovering from surgical treatment for hip fracture and living in their own home prior to fracture.

INTERVENTIONS

Usual rehabilitation care (control) was compared with usual rehabilitation care plus the FEMuR intervention, which comprised a patient-held workbook and goal-setting diary to improve self-efficacy, and six additional therapy sessions delivered in-person in the community, or remotely during COVID-19 restrictions (intervention), to increase the practice of exercise and ADL.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (NEADL) scale at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Falls Self-Efficacy-International scale, hip pain intensity, fear of falling, grip strength and Short Physical Performance Battery. Outcomes were collected by research assistants in participants' homes, whenever possible, but had to be collected remotely during COVID-19 restrictions.

RESULTS

In total, 205 participants were randomised (n=104 experimental; n=101 control). Trial processes were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. There were 20 deaths, 34 withdrawals and three lost to follow-up. At 52 weeks, there was no significant difference in NEADL score between the FEMuR intervention and control groups. Joint modelling analysis testing for difference in longitudinal outcome adjusted for missing values also found no significant difference with a mean difference of 0.1 (95% CI -1.1, 1.3). There were no significant between-group differences in secondary outcomes. Sensitivity analyses, examining the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, produced similar results. A median of 4.5 extra rehabilitation sessions were delivered to the FEMuR intervention group, with a median of two sessions delivered in-person. Instrumental variable regression did not find any effect of the amount of rehabilitation on the main outcome. There were 53 unrelated serious adverse events (SAEs) including 11 deaths in the control group: 41 SAEs including nine deaths in the FEMuR intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

The FEMuR intervention was not more effective than usual rehabilitation care. The trial was severely impacted by COVID-19. Possible reasons for lack of effect included limited intervention fidelity (fewer sessions than planned and remote delivery), lack of usual levels of support from health professionals and families, and change in recovery beliefs and behaviours during the pandemic.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN28376407.

Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency on Short- and Long-Term Mortality in Patients Receiving Hip Fracture Surgery Under General Anesthesia: A Matched Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Although vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is common in patients who have hip fractures, the relationship between VDD and mortality risk remains unclear.

METHODS

Using a network database (2010 to 2023), we conducted a matched cohort study of adult patients undergoing hip fracture surgery under general anesthesia. Patients were stratified according to preoperative 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels into VDD (≤ 20 ng/mL) and control groups (≥ 30 ng/mL). After 1:1 propensity score matching, 4,736 pairs were analyzed. The primary outcome was 12-month all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included 30- and 90-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The 12-month mortality rate was significantly higher in the VDD group than in the control group (13.6 versus 11.6%, hazard ratio [HR]: 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09 to 1.37, P = 0.0005). Similar patterns were observed at 30 days (3.4 versus 2.3%, HR: 1.52, P = 0.0007) and 90 days (7.1 versus 5.2%, HR: 1.41, P < 0.0001). Subgroup analyses based on age (18 to 65 versus > 65 years) and sex revealed a consistent association between VDD and mortality at 12 months. Vitamin D insufficiency (20 to 30 ng/mL) showed no significant association with increased mortality compared to the control group. Among patients who had VDD, malnutrition, neoplasms, diabetes mellitus, and heart disease have been identified as risk factors for 12-month mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative VDD was significantly associated with increased mortality risk after hip fracture surgery, with particularly pronounced effects in the early postoperative period. These findings highlight the importance of preoperative vitamin D screening and potential supplementation strategies for patients who have vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL.

Multimodal sensor dataset for monitoring older adults post lower limb fractures in community settings

Lower limb fractures (LLF) significantly impact older adults, leading to reduced mobility, prolonged recovery, and impaired independence. During recovery, older adults frequently face social isolation and functional decline, complicating rehabilitation and adversely affecting their physical and mental health. Multimodal sensor platforms that continuously collect data and analyze it using machine learning algorithms can remotely monitor this population and infer health outcomes. These platforms can also alert clinicians to individuals at risk of social isolation and functional decline. This paper presents a new publicly available multimodal sensor dataset, MAISON-LLF, collected from older adults recovering from LLF in community settings. The dataset includes data from smartphone and smartwatch sensors, motion detection sensors, sleep-tracking mattresses, and clinical questionnaires on social isolation and functional decline. The dataset was collected from ten older adults living alone at home for eight weeks each, totaling 560 days of 24-hour sensor data. For technical validation, machine learning algorithms were developed using the sensor and clinical questionnaire data, providing a foundational comparison for the research community.

How neighborhood socioeconomic status, green space, and walkability are associated with risk for fracture among postmenopausal women

Although most fractures, and about half of hip fractures, occur outdoors among older women, limited research has uncovered neighborhood predictors for fractures among older women. This study assessed the independent associations of neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES), walkability, and green space with incident any and hip fracture among postmenopausal women. The Women's Health Initiative recruited a national sample of postmenopausal women (50-79 yr) across 40 U.S. clinical centers and conducted yearly assessments from 1993 to 2012 (n = 161 808). Women reporting a history of hip fracture or walking limitations were excluded from the analytic sample, yielding a final sample of 157 583 participants. Fracture events were self-reported and adjudicated annually. Walkability was calculated annually using measures of population density, land use mix, and presence/quantity of nearby high-traffic roadways. Neighborhood green space was calculated annually using measures of exposure to trees/vegetation. Neighborhood SES, walkability, and green space were categorized into tertiles: high, intermediate, and low. The time-varying relationship between neighborhood environmental factors and age at first fracture (any; hip) was examined using extended Cox proportional hazards modeling with adjustment. Neighborhood SES (intermediate vs low: hazard ratio = 1.03, 95% CI, 1.01-1.05; high vs low, hazard ratio = 1.01, 95% CI, 0.99-1.03) and green space (intermediate vs low, hazard ratio = 1.15, 95% CI, 1.12-1.18; high vs low hazard ratio = 1.18, 95% CI, 1.15-1.21) were associated with increased any incident fractures, while walkability had a mixed association (intermediate vs low hazard ratio = 1.06, 95% CI, 1.04-1.07; high vs low, hazard ratio = 0.97, 95% CI, 0.95-0.98). Neighborhood SES, walkability, and green space did not have a relationship with hip fracture after adjustment for important covariates. Results indicate that macroscale neighborhood features did not protect against fractures. Additional research is needed to investigate more granual neighborhood features that might influence injury risk and support physical activity among postmenopausal women.

Successful Rehabilitation After Surgical Repair of Hip Fracture Has Been Associated With Handgrip Strength But Not With Orthostatic Hypotension in Patients 65 Yrs of Age and Above

OBJECTIVE

The identification of factors associated with successful rehabilitation after hip fractures enables more successful planning of the rehabilitation process and discharge from the hospital. Orthostatic hypotension and handgrip strength have been evaluated in previous studies as potential predictors of rehabilitation outcomes, with inconsistent results.

DESIGN

A retrospective study of patients 65 yrs of age and above who underwent rehabilitation after surgical repair of hip fracture in the geriatric department between July 2020 and October 2023. Handgrip strength was measured during the first 3 days of hospitalization using a digital dynamometer. Orthostatic hypotension was measured a week after admission to the ward by the tilt table test. Successful rehabilitation was defined as a Montebello Rehabilitation Factor Score Revised above 50%.

RESULTS

Data were collected for 253 patients. The mean age was 80.5 ± 7.7 and 32.4% were males. The mean handgrip strength was 17.2 ± 6.6 kg. Orthostatic hypotension was diagnosed in 32.8%. One hundred ninety-three patients (76.3%) reached the goal of Montebello Rehabilitation Factor Score Revised ≥ 50 at the end of the rehabilitation. In a logistic regression analysis, handgrip strength, cognitive state, and sex were associated with successful rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Measuring handgrip strength, but not orthostatic hypotension, can predict successful rehabilitation.

Orthogeriatric co-management and incident nursing home admissions in older patients with fragility fractures other than the hip-a retrospective cohort study using insurance claims data from Germany

BACKGROUND

Orthogeriatric co-management (OGCM) has been proposed as care model for geriatric patients with fragility fractures. However, its impact on nursing home (NH) admissions following non-hip fractures is unclear. This study aims to assess the association between OGCM and the probability of NH admissions within 6 months in older patients with fragility fractures other than the hip.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized nationwide insurance claims data from Germany (from years 2014-2018), covering individuals aged 80 years or older with fractures of the humerus, forearm, pelvis, or vertebrae. Based on the number of OGCM claims per year, hospitals were categorized as either OGCM or no OGCM. The primary outcome was the incidence of NH admissions within 6 months of the index fracture. Quasi-Poisson regression models were used to calculate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for age, sex, prior care needs, comorbidity score, and rehabilitation transfer rates.

RESULTS

A total of 106,217 patients were included in the analysis. The incidence of NH admissions varied by fracture site, ranging from 11.1% for pelvic to 24.7% for vertebrae fractures, respectively. OGCM was associated with a reduced probability of NH admissions for humerus fractures (IRR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88-1.00) and vertebral fractures (IRR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87-0.97). No statistically significant associations were found for forearm (IRR 1.06, 95% CI 0.97-1.15) or pelvic fractures (IRR 1.02, 95% CI 0.96-1.09).

CONCLUSIONS

OGCM went along with a reduced probability of NH admissions in geriatric patients with humerus and vertebral fractures but showed no statistically significant benefit for forearm or pelvic fractures. The results highlight the need for targeted OGCM strategies based on fracture type and patient demographics to optimize outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Assessing the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a smart home emergency call system: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial in Germany

INTRODUCTION

Falls can lead to serious health-related consequences in the older population. If an emergency occurs within the home environment of an older person living alone, the initiation of emergency care can be delayed, leading to even worse outcomes for this population. Smart home emergency call systems (HECSs) can detect falls and automatically trigger an emergency alarm, potentially reducing time to emergency care and improving outcomes. The INES (Intelligentes NotfallErkennungsSystem-smart emergency detection system) study is a prospective randomised controlled trial conducted in three German federal states that aims to investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a smart HECS.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Following a telephone interview, individuals aged 70 years or older, living alone, at risk of falling and willing to participate are included in the study. Participants are assigned to one of two groups depending on their previous use of a HECS. Based on the sample size calculation, the study aims to recruit n=498 participants already using a standard HECS (group A) and n=1378 participants who have not used a HECS before (group B). Within both groups, participants are randomised into the intervention arm (IA) and control arm (CA). The IA receives a smart HECS during the 21-month follow-up period. In addition to a standard HECS with a base station and a wearable radio transmitter, the smart HECS includes sensors that can detect falls and automatically trigger an alarm. The primary outcome assessed will be the days spent in the hospital after an emergency admission. Secondary outcomes include the utilisation of healthcare services and their total costs, progression of care dependency, fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale-International), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L) and well-being (ICEpop CAPability measure for Older people).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The design and conceptualisation of the INES study were approved by the ethics committee of the Hamburg Medical Association on 26 June 2023 (2023-101032-BO-ff). Results of the INES study will be published in peer-reviewed articles.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien, German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00031408. Registered on 28 June 2023.

Ergothioneine alleviates osteoporosis via the ROS-MAPK signaling Axis

The accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells regulates the formation and function of osteoclasts, which is crucial therapeutic target for the treatment of osteoporosis. Ergothioneine (EGT) is a rare amino acid with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its application on osteoporosis has not been reported. In this study, we investigated the effects of EGT on osteoclastogenesis in vitro and in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. The results revealed that EGT could suppress RANKL-induced podosome belt formation and osteoclast development in vitro, while reducing intracellular ROS levels by upregulating key antioxidant enzymes, including HO-1 and Catalase. EGT was also found to downregulate the expression of critical osteoclast-specific proteins such as Trap, c-Fos, and Ctsk through attenuation of MAPK signaling. The potential of EGT to protect against trabecular bone loss in OVX mice was further demonstrated by micro-CT imaging, possibly by reducing osteoclast numbers shown by histological outcomes. These findings together highlighted the potential value of EGT as a novel tool for treating osteoporosis through its ability to suppress osteoclastogenesis and mitigate the accumulation of intracellular ROS.

Weight-bearing and mobilisation timing after hip fracture surgery in older adults: an international survey of clinicians' perspectives

PURPOSE

This exploratory study aimed to describe international variations in mobilisation timing and weight-bearing after hip fracture surgery, focusing on differences between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and identify the possible reasons for these variations.

METHODS

This international cross-sectional study was administered through an online, English-language, self-reported questionnaire. Healthcare professionals from various multidisciplinary teams were invited to participate via professional organisations, including the Fragility Fracture Network, social media, and through snowballing from key individual stakeholders.

RESULTS

A total of 389 healthcare professionals from 71 countries participated in the survey. Among them, 72.5% prescribed mobilisation the day after surgery, higher in HICs (79.1%) than LMICs (56.3%). Of those who prescribed early mobilisation, 38.3% achieved it 76-100% of the time, more frequently in HICs (42.9%) than LMICs (21.9%). Additionally, 73.5% prescribed unrestricted weight-bearing, also more common in HICs (86.3%) than LMICs (41%). For those who prescribed unrestricted weight-bearing, 50.4% achieved it 76-100% of the time, with HICs at 54.0% and LMICs at 31.9%. Multiple patient-related, process-related, and structure-related barriers were reported, with structure-related barriers more common in LMICs than HICs, underscoring the global complexities in implementing these practices.

CONCLUSION

This study offers insights into global variations in the timing of mobilisation and weight-bearing after hip fracture surgery in older adults. It reveals disparities in postoperative services and resources between HICs and LMICs. Additionally, it establishes a foundation for future research and underscores the importance of international collaboration and knowledge sharing in enhancing postoperative care services.

An economic evaluation of pre-discharge home assessment visits following hip fracture: Analysis from a randomised controlled trial

ObjectiveTo investigate cost-effectiveness of pre-discharge home assessment visits for patients recovering after hip fracture.DesignCost-effectiveness analysis completed alongside a randomised controlled trial.SettingHospital wards and the community.ParticipantsAdults 50 years and over with hip fractures planning to return home.InterventionParticipants were randomised to either usual-care hospital-based discharge planning or usual-care hospital-based discharge planning with a pre-discharge home assessment visit by an occupational therapist.Main measuresFunctional Independence Measure, EQ-5D-3L, and number of falls. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated for changes at 30 days and 6 months.ResultsSeventy-seven patients participated. Compared to usual care, the home assessment group likely had fewer falls at 30 days (incidence rate ratio = 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15 to 1.11) and increased functional independence at 6 months (11.2 units, 95% CI 4.2 to 18.2) but no difference in quality of life (0.0 units, 95% CI -0.1 to 0.1). The mean cost to provide a home assessment visit was A$135.70. A mean cost saving of A$6182 (95% CI -$6414 to $18,777) favoured the home assessment group. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio found a saving of A$71,337 (95% CI -$998,930 to $411,409) in achieving clinically important changes in functional independence for the home assessment group at 6 months and a saving of A$34,832 (95% CI -$331,344 to $213,900) per fall avoided in favour of the home assessment group at 30 days.ConclusionFrom a health service perspective, pre-discharge home assessments for patients after hip fracture are likely to be cost-effective in restoring functional independence and reducing falls.

Feasibility of the online educational tool about the ActiveHip + mHealth intervention in occupational therapy students

BACKGROUND

The rise of electronic learning and digital health underscores the need for occupational therapists (OTs) to be proficient in using them. Digital training enables OTs to update their skills, while the integration of digital health tools into clinical practice enhances patient care. Thus, it is crucial to explore the factors that influence the acquisition of knowledge in occupational therapists through digital training. In response, an online educational tool about the ActiveHip + mHealth intervention (NCT04859309) was developed to enhance students' knowledge of managing digital health tools for older adults with a hip fracture.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of the online educational tool about the ActiveHip + mHealth intervention. The secondary aims were to explore the relationship between the knowledge after using the online educational tool and different factors (e.g., emotional status) and to inform future studies to assess the effectiveness of this tool.

METHODS

A feasibility study was conducted including Occupational Therapy (OT) students who completed the online educational tool about ActiveHip + mHealth intervention. The feasibility was assessed through adoption, adherence and acceptability, while learning was assessed using a questionnaire administered before and after the use of the online educational tool. The influence of different factors (i.e., emotional intelligence, previous knowledge) on knowledge after using it was also estimated.

RESULTS

The online educational tool demonstrated satisfactory feasibility results, with 83% adoption, 98% adherence and high overall acceptance (120.35 out of 141). Among the acceptance dimensions, performance expectancy, effort expectancy and facilitating conditions received the highest scores. While factors such as course year, effort expectancy and hedonic motivation showed independent correlations with knowledge after using the online educational tool, sequential regression analysis revealed that prior knowledge was the only significant predictor of the knowledge after using the online tool.

CONCLUSION

The online educational tool about ActiveHip + mHealth intervention is feasible to use for the occupational therapy students. However, we do not recommend its implementation in educational settings until well-randomised controlled trials confirm its effectiveness.

Association between early sitting and functional mobility recovery after hip-fracture surgery in older patients: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hip fractures significantly impact older adults, leading to compromised mobility and various adverse outcomes. The importance of early post-surgery mobilization in regaining pre-fracture levels of mobility is recognized, but lacks standardized definitions and implementation strategies. This study aimed to assess the impact of early sitting position 24 h after hip-fracture surgery on functional mobility recovery after 30 days using data from the Spanish National Hip Fracture Registry (RNFC).

METHODS

Prospective cohort study, including patients aged ≥ 75 years admitted for hip-fracture surgery between 2017 and 2020 at Sant Camil Residential Hospital. Data from the RNFC were analyzed, and linear regression models were developed to assess the association between early sitting after surgery (ESAS) and mobility recovery at 30 days after surgery.

RESULTS

Of 486 identified patients, 321 were included, with an estimated ESAS prevalence of 38.32% (95% CI: 32.97-43.88). ESAS was significantly associated with improved mobility recovery at 30 days. Multivariate regression models consistently revealed ESAS as a modest independent predictor of better post-surgery mobility. Factors such as age, cognitive capacity, and general health also impacted mobility recovery.

CONCLUSION

The ESAS effect, while modest, emerges as a significant predictor of hip mobility recovery among older patients with hip fractures 30 days after surgery. These findings underscore the potential of this low-risk, low-cost intervention in enhancing functional mobility recovery strategies and emphasize the need for further research to uncover its broader implications in post-operative care. Implementation of early sitting could be enhanced, as only a third of patients in our study underwent this simple intervention.

Safety and complications of antimicrobial coated compared to conventional intramedullary femoral nails in proximal femoral fractures

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare one-year mortality and the incidence of complications, particularly fracture-related infections, between patients with proximal femur fractures treated with novel noble metal-coated implants and those treated with uncoated implants, to detect possible effects of the coating on these endpoints.

METHODS

Design: Retrospective cohort observational study.

SETTING

Level 1 trauma centre. Patient Selection Criteria: All patients ≥ 18 years old with proximal femur fracture, who were treated with an intramedullary femur nail between 01.09.2020 and 01.10.2022 were included. The coated group (COATED) included patients who were treated with a coated implant. The control group (CONTROL) was treated with uncoated implants. Pathological fractures were excluded.

RESULTS

188 patients who matched the criteria were included (COATED: 93, CONTROL: 95). There was no significant difference in the one-year mortality or complication rate between the two groups. The fracture-related infection rate did not differ (p = 0.31) between both groups. Complications were observed in 59% of all cases and the overall one-year mortality rate was 42%. There was a significant correlation between complication occurrence and hospital stay (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The coated intramedullary nail was similar to the uncoated nail in terms of perioperative complications and 1-year mortality rate. This suggests that the novel coated implant is safe for common clinical use. Further prospective multicentre studies with larger sample sizes are needed to detect a potential impact of coated implants on the incidence of fracture-related infections.

Forecasting the burden of hip fracture in Norway towards 2050 by educational level: The Norwegian Epidemiologic Osteoporosis Studies (NOREPOS)

AIMS

Hip fracture burden is expected to increase due to the ageing population. Given that hip fracture incidence differs by educational attainment, and that a shift in the older population's educational level will manifest itself in coming decades, we investigated future hip fracture trends in Norway and their variation by attained educational level.

METHODS

Estimated annual hip fracture numbers in the population aged 50+ years in 2020-2050 were based on information from the Norwegian Epidemiologic Osteoporosis Studies hip fracture database and official population projections from Statistics Norway. Projected educational attainment was obtained from the Wittgenstein Centre for Demography and Global Human Capital. We explored two scenarios: first, assuming that the observed 2019 rates remain constant until 2050, and second, assuming a continuing rate of decline corresponding to that observed during 1999-2019.

RESULTS

The projections showed that the annual number of hip fractures will increase by 91% in women and 131% in men given constant sex- and age-specific rates, and by 27% in women and 66% in men given declining rates. The majority of hip fractures are expected in the group with secondary education, however, the numbers will increase steeply in people with tertiary education due to the temporal shift in educational attainment.

CONCLUSIONS

The annual number of hip fractures may double by 2050, placing high demands on the healthcare services. The majority of hip fractures are projected to occur in people with secondary and tertiary education. It is vital to intensify preventive efforts, not least in the high-risk populations.

Health Professional Support for Friends and Family Members of Older People Discharged from Hospital After a Fracture: A Survey Study

Background/Objectives: Friends and family members of people who are discharged from hospital after a fracture often take on caring roles, since these patients have reduced independence during recovery. Previous literature suggests that these individuals are rarely supported in their adoption of these roles. No studies have previously explored the use of carer training interventions to support friends/family members by health professionals in this setting. This survey study aimed to address this. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among health professionals who treat people in hospital following fractures. Respondents were asked about the use of care training for friends/family members of people discharged from hospital after fracture, and whether a clinical trial would be useful to test such carer training interventions. Results: A total of 114 health professionals accessed the survey. Fifty respondents (44%) reported that carer training was not offered in their practice. When it was offered, respondents reported this was not consistently provided. Less than 12% of respondents reported offering carer training to most of their patients following a fracture. What was offered in these instances was largely based on education provision (69%), practical skills in exercise prescription (55%) and manual handling (51%). Ninety-eight percent of respondents reported that a clinical trial would be, or would potentially be, valuable to aid a change in practice to include carer training in routine clinical care. Conclusions: Carer training programmes are not routinely provided in clinical practice for people following a fracture. The results indicate that health professionals see a potential value in these programmes, but further research is recommended to provide an evidence base for these interventions.

Risk factors for cut-throughs in intertrochanteric hip fracture fixation Tip-Apex Distance (TAD) <10 mm and Apex-to-Center <4 mm

OBJECTIVES

TAD > 25 mm is a risk factor for cut-out in intramedullary nailing. Less attention has been given to the risk factors for central cut-through and the possible outcomes of TAD <10 mm. Furthermore, the risk of cut-through depending on minimum depth on either anterior-posterior (AP) or lateral views has not been explored. The goal of this study is to outline the parameters that increase risk of cut-through in intertrochanteric hip fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 2128 intertrochanteric hip fractures admitted to a single level 1 academic trauma center from 2014 - 2023 was conducted. Variables included patient and operative characteristics, fracture fixation device, fracture type based on OTA/AO 2018 classification, TAD, neck-shaft angle and radiographic and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

TAD <10 millimeters carried a significantly higher risk for lag screw and blade cut-through. Cut-through risk increased significantly when either AP or lateral apex-to-center distance was <4 millimeters, including when comparing fracture reduction quality for a cohort including sliding hip screws, lag screws and blades. Cut-out complications in this cohort only occurred with a TAD >10 mm and was significantly more likely to occur with TAD >25 mm, similar to prior studies.

CONCLUSION

TAD optimization between 10 and 25 mm reduces risk of both cut-out and cut-through and maintenance of 4 mm of distance between apex-to-center distance may help decrease the risk of cut-through complications.

Downregulation of STAT1 improved learning and memory impairments in aging mice

Cognitive impairment is a typical hallmark of aging in mice and humans. Here, we reported that downregulation of STAT1 improved learning and memory impairments in aging mice by enhancing the expression of synaptic protein and inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors. Proteomic analysis revealed 139 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the hippocampus of downregulated-STAT1 aging mice, compared with aging control mice. Functional classification of DEPs indicated that these mainly involved in inflammation, autophagy, synapse, mitochondria and apoptosis. The ClueGo analysis uncovered that the Wiki pathway of these DEPs were involved in proteasome degradation, IL-6 signaling pathway, signaling of hepatocyte growth factor receptor and so on. Taken together, downregulation of STAT1 may delay aging with multiple mechanisms.

Examination of factors causing postoperative pneumonia in elderly hip fracture patients: A narrative review

With the increasing aging problem, the number of fractures in the elderly is also increasing, of which hip fractures are more common, known as "the last fracture of life." Postoperative pneumonia (POP) is a common complication of hip fracture, which greatly increases the mortality of patients. It is particularly important to clarify the factors of perioperative pneumonia for the prevention and treatment process. In this paper, the factors causing POP mainly include demographic factors, pre-injury comorbidities, blood index parameters, major clinical interventions and related mechanisms were reviewed, and the risk degree of the factors causing postoperative pneumonia was mainly discussed, and they were divided into independent factors and risk factors. The objective is to make the most accurate POP prevention measures for hip fracture patients according to the classification of independent factors and risk factors, and reduce the incidence of postoperative pneumonia.

Characteristics and outcomes for hip fracture patients in an integrated orthogeriatric care model: a descriptive study of four discharge pathways with one-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Orthogeriatric hospital care is recommended for hip fra cture patients, but differentiated hospital care has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to describe physical performance and health-related quality of life for hip fracture patients 1-year after surgery in four treatment pathways. We also report changes in functional outcomes from baseline to 1-year follow-up together with readmission and mortality rates for each pathway.

METHODS

We included 177 hip fracture patients aged 65 years or older from a single center in Norway. Participants were discharged home, to specialised rehabilitation, regular rehabilitation or nursing home based on orthogeriatric assessment of pre- and postfracture function, mobility level and Ac tivities of Daily Living. Outcome variables included Short Physical Performance Battery, EuroQol-5-dimension-5-level, Barthel-index, Lawton & Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, Lawton & Brody Self-Maintenance Scale, readmission and mortality rates during follow-up.

RESULTS

Participants discharged home and to specialised rehabilitation were younger and healthier than participants discharged to regular rehabilitation and nursing home. All groups had a clinically important improvement in Short Physical Performance Battery score (mean 4.8 points, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.2, 5.5) from post-surgery to 1-year follow-up and a clinically important decline in EuroQol-5-dimension-5-level (mean -0.12 points, CI -0.16, -0.07) from baseline to 1-year follow-up. The decline in Barthel-index from baseline to 1-year follow-up was greater in the regular rehabilitation group (mean -2.3 points, CI -4.2, -0.2) than in the home group (mean -0.6 points, CI -1.4, 0.2) and specialised rehabilitation group (mean -0.4 points, CI -2.4, 1.6). Participants in the regular rehabilitation group were more frequently readmitted (standardised Pearson residual 4.1) and mortality rates were higher in the nursing home group (standardised Pearson residual 7.8) during the first year.

CONCLUSIONS

Orthogeriatric treatment pathways for hip fracture patients entailed differentiation based on factors such as age, mobility, comorbidity and physical function. Participants in all pathways improved in physical performance-scores, yet experienced decline in quality of life-scores during follow-up. Overall readmission and mortality rates were not influenced, but varied between pathways. Further research is needed to investigate the need for differentiated hospital treatment and its potential effects on rehabilitation after discharge.

Postoperative outcomes in patients operated for extra- and intracapsular hip fractures - a secondary analysis of two randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Hip fractures are among the most common and serious injuries in older adults. There has been a perception that extracapsular hip fractures have worse outcome than intracapsular hip fractures. We aimed to examine postoperative outcomes in patients operated for extra- and intracapsular hip fractures.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of data from two randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of orthogeriatric care. Bivariate analyses were conducted, comparing patients with extracapsular fracture to patients with intracapsular fracture. Mortality, length of hospital stay (LOS), new nursing home admissions, operative data and measures of functional and cognitive performance were assessed as endpoints.

RESULTS

The primary analysis included 711 patients; 283 patients had an extracapsular fracture and 428 an intracapsular fracture. At four months follow-up, the intracapsular fracture group had significantly better Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) (5.0 vs. 4.0, p = 0.007), personal Activities of Daily Living (p-ADL) (17.0 vs. 16.0, p = 0.007) and instrumental ADL (i-ADL) (32.5 vs. 28.0, p = 0.049). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with an extracapsular fracture had worse mobility and ADL levels four months postoperatively, but there were no clinically relevant differences at 12 months postoperatively.

The association between the number of chronic conditions and treatment of patients who are at high risk for future fracture in the Ontario Fracture Screening and Prevention Program (FSPP)

We compared medication prescription and initiation proportions among high-risk Fracture Screening and Prevention Program patients with multiple chronic conditions. Patients with two conditions were more likely to receive prescriptions and initiate prescribed medication than those with none. Post hoc analysis showed that patients with ≥ 3 conditions were less likely to be prescribed and to initiate medication, compared to those with two conditions. Tailored interventions are important for improving post-fracture care outcomes.

PURPOSE

To investigate the association between the number of chronic conditions and pharmacological treatment outcomes in high-risk patients who were screened through the Fracture Screening and Prevention Program (FSPP).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was employed to determine the association between the number of chronic conditions and treatment outcomes. All high-risk patients who were enrolled in the FSPP between June 1, 2017, and June 30, 2022, were included in the study. The number of self-reported chronic conditions available in the FSPP data was classified into four categories: (1) 0 condition; (2) 1 condition; (3) 2 conditions; and (4) ≥ 3 conditions. Multivariable logistic regression models were created with prescription and initiation as outcomes.

RESULTS

In total, 11,245 patients were identified as high-risk for future fracture. Patients with two chronic conditions demonstrated a 26% higher odds of receiving a medication prescription, and those with two chronic conditions and prescribed bone-active medication had a 57% increased odds of initiating the treatment compared to individuals without chronic conditions. No significant differences in medication prescription or initiation were seen in those with 1 or ≥ 3 chronic conditions compared to those without chronic conditions. In post hoc testing, we saw a 25-30% significantly lower odds of medication prescription and initiation in patients reporting ≥ 3 chronic conditions when compared to those who reported only two chronic conditions.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that a large provincial secondary fracture prevention program resulted in higher odds of prescription and initiation of treatment in patients with two chronic conditions compared to those having no chronic conditions. Potential inequities in these treatment outcomes were found with a threshold of three or more chronic conditions. This highlights the need for tailored interventions and comprehensive support systems to improve fracture prevention outcomes for high-risk patients with multiple chronic conditions.

Association between diabetes of different durations and hip fracture in middle-aged and older people: a stratified cohort study from CHARLS 2011-2020

BACKGROUND

The effect of the duration of diabetes on hip fracture is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between different durations of diabetes and hip fracture.

METHODS

This cohort study included participants from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2011-2020. Diabetes was defined as glycated hemoglobin A1c ≥ 6.5%, fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, random blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL, or previous diagnosis of diabetes. Participants were stratified according to diabetes duration, and information was collected on their first hip fracture. The association between diabetes of different durations and hip fracture was assessed using Cox proportional risk models and Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

A total of 9,927 participants with a mean age of 58.4 ± 8.7 and 54.3% female were included, and 574 participants suffered a hip fracture. Compared with no diabetes, the associations between overall diabetes, newly diagnosed diabetes, diabetes with a duration of < 6 years, and hip fracture were all not significant, all P > 0.05. Known diabetes and diabetes of duration ≥ 6 years significantly increased the risk of hip fracture, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 1.69 (1.19 ~ 2.4), P = 0.003, and 2.2 (1.34 ~ 3.61), P = 0.002.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither newly diagnosed diabetes nor diabetes with a disease duration of < 6 years was associated with hip fracture compared with no diabetes people. When the duration of diabetes is ≥ 6 years, the risk of hip fracture is significantly increased, and appropriate preventive measures are recommended.

The vulnerability of hip fracture patients with cognitive impairment: an analysis of health conditions, hospital care, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment, including dementia, and hip fracture are both common among older patients. Both conditions are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Cognitive impairment is often underdiagnosed and may remain undetected in hip fracture patients. Little is known about the prevalence, specific characteristics, and outcomes of hip fracture patients with cognitive impairment. This analysis aimed to compare hip fracture patients with and without cognitive impairments regarding their health conditions, hospital care, and the risk of complications and mortality.

METHODS

This study used data derived from the EMAAge project, a prospective multi-center cohort study conducted in Berlin, Germany. Patients aged 40 years and older with hip fracture were stratified into three cognitive status groups: no cognitive impairment (NCI), moderate cognitive impairment (MCI), and severe cognitive impairment (SCI). Categorization was based on patients' ability to engage in interviews and their performance on the 6-item Cognitive Impairment Test (6-CIT). Standardized mean differences were used to compare various health-related parameters and health care utilization measures. Regression models, both adjusted and unadjusted, were calculated for the number of complications and the mortality rate.

RESULTS

Cognitive impairment was present in 37% of the 310 hip fracture patients in the study cohort. Patients with cognitive impairment had a worse baseline health profile, delayed admission to the emergency department, a longer time to surgery, and were less likely to be referred to a rehabilitation program. In the adjusted regression model for the number of complications, the incidence rate ratio was 1.237 (p = 0.292) for MCI patients and 2.065 (p < 0.001) for SCI patients compared with NCI patients. The adjusted odds ratio for mortality was 1.046 (p = 0.942) for MCI patients and 2.875 (p = 0.060) for SCI patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Hip fracture patients with cognitive impairment, particularly severe impairment, arrive at the ED in a considerably poorer state of health and are at a higher risk of adverse outcomes, including complications and mortality. Timely identification of this at-risk group upon arrival appears to be essential to providing adequate care. This study highlights the need for interventions and research aimed at improving prevention, emergency care and outcomes for this vulnerable group, addressing their specific risk factors, and promoting the quality of care in hospital and after discharge.

Screening for Osteoporosis to Prevent Fractures: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement

Importance

Osteoporotic fractures are associated with psychological distress, subsequent fractures, loss of independence, reduced ability to perform activities of daily living, and death.

Objective

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) commissioned a systematic review to evaluate the evidence on the benefits and harms of screening for osteoporosis to prevent fractures in adults 40 years or older with no known diagnosis of osteoporosis or history of fragility fracture.

Population

Adults 40 years or older without known osteoporosis or history of fragility fractures.

Evidence Assessment

The USPSTF concludes with moderate certainty that screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in women 65 years or older has moderate net benefit. The USPSTF concludes with moderate certainty that screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women younger than 65 years at increased risk has moderate net benefit. The USPSTF concludes that the evidence is insufficient and the balance of benefits and harms for screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in men cannot be determined.

Recommendation

The USPSTF recommends screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in women 65 years or older. (B recommendation) The USPSTF recommends screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women younger than 65 years who are at increased risk for an osteoporotic fracture as estimated by clinical risk assessment. (B recommendation) The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for osteoporosis to prevent osteoporotic fractures in men. (I statement).

Prediction of imminent osteoporotic fracture risk in Danish postmenopausal women-can the addition of self-reported clinical risk factors improve the prediction of the register-based FREM algorithm?

Obtaining accurate self-reports on clinical risk factors, such as parental hip fracture or alcohol and tobacco use, limits the utility of conventional risk scores for fracture risk. We demonstrate that fracture-risk prediction based on administrative health data alone performs equally to prediction based on self-reported clinical risk factors.

BACKGROUND

Accurate assessment of fracture risk is crucial. Unlike established risk prediction tools that rely on patient recall, the Fracture Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) utilises register data to estimate the risk of major osteoporotic fracture (MOF). We investigated whether adding self-reported clinical risk factors for osteoporosis to the FREM algorithm improved the prediction of 1-year fracture risk by comparing three approaches: the FREM algorithm (FREMorig), clinical risk factors (CRFonly), and FREM combined with clinical risk factors (FREM-CRF).

METHOD

Clinical risk factor information was obtained through questionnaires sent to women aged 65-80 years living in the Region of Southern Denmark in 2010, who participated in the Risk-stratified Osteoporosis Strategy Evaluation study. Register data was obtained through national health registers and linked to the survey data. Positive and negative predictive values and concordance statistics were calculated for the performance of each approach using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Of the 18,605 women included, 280 sustained a MOF within 1 year. All three approaches performed similarly in 1-year fracture risk prediction for low- and high-risk individuals. However, the FREMorig and FREM-CRF approach slightly overestimated fracture risk for medium-risk individuals.

CONCLUSION

Adding self-reported clinical data to FREM did not increase precision in predicting 1-year MOF risk. The discrimination of FREMorig was similar to that of CRFonly, suggesting it may be possible to estimate fracture risk with the same precision by using register data instead of self-reported risk information. Register-based prediction models may be applicable in individualised risk monitoring or large-scale osteoporosis screening programmes.

Effects of structured positive feedback intervention on standing reach ability among older adults admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward: a small-sample pilot randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Interventions to improve the standing reach ability of older adults are essential for full functional independence, and structured positive feedback (PF) may be an effective intervention strategy. The purposes of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) are to investigate the preliminary efficacy of structured PF for improving the standing reach ability of older patients admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward and evaluate the feasibility of a future full-scale RCT.

METHODS

Thirty-two eligible older adults (83.3 ± 5.9 years, 23 women) out of 587 potential participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to structured PF (experimental) and conventional rehabilitation (control) groups. Only the experimental group received PF intervention for standing reach ability once every 3 days. Both groups engaged in conventional rehabilitation programs for 2-3 h every day. The primary outcome was change in Functional Reach Test (FRT) performance after 5 weeks of the indicated intervention compared to baseline. Secondary outcomes were change in Short Falls Efficacy Scale International (Short FES-I), a self-reported measure of fear of falling, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores after the 5-week intervention.

RESULTS

The estimated difference in mean FRT change (∆) between experimental and control groups was - 4.1 cm (P = 0.07) according to a linear mixed model, supporting the potential efficacy of PF for improving standing reach ability. Further, Hedge's g value was 0.71, consistent with a moderate effect size. However, the estimated mean change in Short FES-I between groups also indicated greater fear of falling in the experimental group (∆ = - 4.5, P = 0.009, g = 1.0). In contrast, the intervention effect on FIM was negligible (∆ = 2.0, P = 0.66, g = - 0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the preliminary effectiveness of structured PF for improving the standing reach ability of older adults. A larger-sample RCT is warranted for validation and optimization of the structured PF protocol.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Registered 31 May 2022 (UMIN000047647).

Two decades of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in health research: a bibliometric analysis

Introduction: We conducted a twenty-year bibliometric analysis of scientific literature, focusing on the trends of The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) use in health research.

Methods: We retrieved 3'467 documents published between 2002 and 2022, sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection database. We used the Bibliometrix and VoSviewer tools for descriptive analyses and data visualization.

Results: Our findings indicate a significant increase in ICF application since 2011, with an average annual growth rate of 13.19%. Prominent contributions were observed globally, with notable outputs from the U.S., Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Swiss Paraplegic Research, and McMaster University authored a quarter of the documents (24.6%). Collaboration networks of countries and institutions revealed robust partnerships, particularly between Germany and Switzerland. "Rehabilitation" was the most frequently occurring keyword, although a thematic shift towards epidemiology, aging, and health-related quality of life was observed post-2020. While rehabilitation remained the primary thematic focus, literature post-2020 highlighted epidemiology as a growing area of interest.

Conclusions: A steady increase in ICF-based research mirrors the rising interest in a biopsychosocial and person-centered approach to healthcare. However, the literature is primarily produced by high-resource countries, with underrepresentation from low and middle-resource countries, suggesting an area of future research to address this discrepancy.

Number of teeth and incidence of hip fracture in older adults aged ≥75 years: the OHSAKA study

BACKGROUND

Several studies reported an association between the number of teeth and the incidence of hip fractures in observational studies, mainly in middle-aged adults. This retrospective cohort study aimed to clarify the association between the number of teeth and the incidence of hip fractures.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 256,772 participants aged 75 years or older who underwent public dental checkups in Japan were evaluated. Exposure in this study was the number of teeth, with a maximum number of 28, excluding third molars. Outcome measures were the incidence of hip fractures needing surgery, using the Japanese procedure codes in medical claims.

RESULTS

A total of 190,998 participants met the inclusion criteria and were available for analysis. Adjusted Fine and Gray models identified a significant association between the number of teeth, including sound, filled, and decayed teeth, and the incidence of hip fractures among women but not for men. The continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI) of the sound and filled teeth count model increased by 0.078 compared with that of the sound, filled, and decayed teeth count model among women.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of sound and filled teeth predicted the risk of hip fractures in women, whereas no association was observed between the number of teeth and hip fractures in men.

Trends in Osteoporosis Drug Therapy Receipt Among Commercial and Medicare Advantage Enrollees in the United States, 2011-2022

CONTEXT

A national assessment of osteoporosis drug therapy (ODT) use can inform the extent of underdiagnosis and undertreatment of osteoporosis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to describe trends in ODT use by age, sex, fragility fracture, and documented osteoporosis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of patient-quarter observations for adults aged ≥50 years with commercial or Medicare Advantage health insurance in the OptumLabs Data Warehouse between 2011 and 2022. The primary outcome was the proportion of patient-quarter observations with ODT use stratified by age, sex, fragility fracture, and documented osteoporosis. Cuzick tests were performed to assess trends ODT use.

RESULTS

Analysis of 166 673 420 patient-quarter observations revealed that over 70% of patients with fragility fractures did not have documented osteoporosis. Among women aged ≥65 years with documented osteoporosis, ODT fill rates increased between 2011 and 2022 from 36.3% to 50.1% for women without fragility fractures (P < .001) and from 30.8% to 43.7% for women with fragility fractures (P < .001). However, ODT fill rates declined (9.2% to 7.4% between 2011 and 2022) for women with fragility fractures and no documented osteoporosis (P = .015). Similar trends were observed among women aged 50-64 years and men.

CONCLUSION

ODT use for patients with documented osteoporosis has increased but remains low. Low rates of ODT use for patients with fragility fractures in the absence of documented osteoporosis suggests that underdiagnosis of osteoporosis contributes to underuse of ODTs.

Early mobilisation after hip fracture surgery reduces the risk of infection: an inverse probability of treatment weighted analysis

BACKGROUND

Mobilisation within the first day following hip fracture surgery is recommended. However, an in-depth analysis of the association between early mobilisation and the risk of infection is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between early mobilisation and the subsequent risk of hospital-treated infections following hip fracture surgery.

METHODS

Using nationwide registries, we included 36 229 patients aged ≥65 who underwent surgery for hip fracture (2016-21). Exposure was time from surgery to first mobilisation in hours. Outcomes were any hospital-treated infection, pneumonia, urinary tract infection and sepsis within 2-30 days and reoperation due to surgical-site infection within 2-365 days of surgery. We calculated cumulative incidences (risks), risk differences (RD) and hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using the inverse probability of treatment (IPT) weighted method to account for confounding.

RESULTS

Overall, 27 174 (75%) patients were mobilised ≤24 h, 2890 (8%) between 24 and 36 h, and 6165 (17%) were mobilised >36 h of surgery or had no registration of mobilisation time.In the weighted analysis, the risk of any infection was 12.9% (CI 11.7%-14.2%) in patients mobilised 24-36 h of surgery and 10.9% (CI 10.5%-11.7%) in those mobilised ≤24 h, corresponding to RD of 2.0% (CI 0.7-3.3) and HR of 1.2 (CI 1.1-1.3). Similar associations were observed for pneumonia and urinary tract infection but not for sepsis and reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Infection is a common complication after hip fracture surgery. Mobilisation within 24 h is clearly associated with reduced infection risk. Our results emphasise the importance of early mobilisation and suggest a possible pathway for reducing complications and mortality after hip fracture.

Trajectories of Disability and Long-Term Care Utilization After Acute Health Events

Hip fractures, strokes, and heart attacks are common acute health events that can lead to long-term disability, care utilization, and unmet needs. However, such impacts, especially in the long term, are not fully understood. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, 1992-2018, this study examines the long-term trajectories of individuals suffering such health shocks, comparing with individuals not experiencing health shocks. Hip fracture, stroke, and heart attack are confirmed to have severe implications for disability. In most cases of stroke and heart attack, informal caregivers provide the daily support needed by survivors, whereas following hip fracture, nursing home care is more relevant. These health shocks put individuals on worse trajectories of disability, care utilization, and unmet needs. There is no long-term recovery or convergence with individuals who do not suffer shocks. Unmet need is prevalent, even pre-shock and among individuals who do not experience health shocks, emphasizing the importance of preventative care measures. These findings support policy action to ensure hospitalized individuals, especially those aged 50 and above, receive rehabilitative services and other post-acute care. Furthermore, hospitalization is an event that requires the detection and addressing of unmet care needs beyond the short run.

Walking self-confidence and lower levels of anxiety are associated with meeting recommended levels of physical activity after hip fracture: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

To explore whether psychological factors are associated with ability to meet recommended physical activity thresholds after hip fracture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional observational study of 216 community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years after hip fracture (mean age 79 SD 7 years, 70% female). Multiple ordinal regression analysis determined factors associated with meeting physical activity thresholds related to positive health outcomes: 4,400 and 7,100 daily steps. Explanatory variables were: walking self-confidence; falls self-efficacy; depression; anxiety; co-morbidities; previous gait aid use; nutritional status; age; and gender.

RESULTS

Forty-three participants (20%) met the lower threshold of ≥4,400 to <7,100 steps and thirty participants (14%) met the upper threshold of ≥7,100 steps. Walking self-confidence was positively associated with meeting higher physical activity thresholds (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.32: 95% CI 1.11 to 1.57, p = 0.002). Age (AOR 0.93: 95% CI 0.89 to 0.98, p = 0.003), DASS-21 anxiety score (AOR 0.81: 95% CI 0.69 to 0.94, p = 0.008) and comorbidity index score (AOR 0.52: 95% CI 0.36 to 0.72, p < 0.001) were negatively associated with meeting higher physical activity thresholds.

CONCLUSION

Walking self-confidence and anxiety are potentially modifiable factors associated with meeting physical activity thresholds related to positive health outcomes after hip fracture.

Evaluating the Severity Spectrum: A Hierarchical Analysis of Complications During Hip Fracture Admission Associated With Mortality

OBJECTIVES

To determine which in-hospital complications after the operative treatment of hip fractures are associated with increased in-patient, 30-day, and 1-year mortality.

METHODS

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

A single academic medical center and a Level 1 Trauma Center.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

All patients who were operatively treated for hip fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association/AO 31A, 31B and Vancouver A, B, and C periprosthetic fractures) at a single center between October, 2014, and June, 2023.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

Occurrence of an in-hospital complication was recorded. Cohorts were based on mortality time points (during admission, 30 days, and 1 year) and compared with patients who were alive at those time points to determine which in-hospital complications were most associated with mortality. Correlation analysis was performed between patients who died and those who were alive at each time point.

RESULTS

A total of 3134 patients (average age of 79.6 years, range 18-104 years and 66.6% women) met inclusion for this study. The overall mortality rate during admission, 30 days, and 1 year was found to be 1.6%, 3.9%, and 11.1%, respectively. Sepsis was the complication most associated with increased in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 7.79, 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.22-18.82, P < 0.001) compared with other in-hospital complications. Compared with other in-hospital complications, stroke was the complication most associated with 30-day mortality (OR 7.95, 95% CI, 1.82-34.68, P < 0.001). Myocardial infarction was the complication most associated with 1-year mortality (OR 2.86, 95% CI, 1.21-6.77, P = 0.017) compared with other in-hospital complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative sepsis, stroke, and myocardial infraction were the 3 complications most associated with mortality during admission, 30-day mortality, and 1-year mortality, respectively, during the operative treatment of hip fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Efficacy of Fragility Fracture Integrated Rehabilitation Management in Older Adults With Hip Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial With 1-Year Follow-Up

OBJECTIVES

Comprehensive multidisciplinary rehabilitation has been proven to benefit patients recovering from hip fracture surgery, enhancing postoperative outcomes. However, challenges persist in delivering such rehabilitation due to health care system limitations and inadequate policies. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of Fragility Fracture Integrated Rehabilitation Management (FIRM) in comparison to a conventional rehabilitation after hip fracture surgery.

DESIGN

A parallel-group, single-blind, multicenter randomized clinical trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Three in-hospital rehabilitation settings; 203 hip fracture surgery patients aged 65 years and older were randomized and followed up for 1 year.

METHODS

The main outcome assessed ambulatory function, using the Koval and Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) scales. Functional outcomes were evaluated upon rehabilitation admission, discharge, and during follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months post-surgery. The prevalence of independent ambulation and recovery to prefracture ambulatory status at each follow-up time point were analyzed.

RESULTS

The FIRM group demonstrated superior improvements in Koval and FAC scores, along with most secondary outcomes during the 1-year follow-up. Significant changes from baseline to 12 months were observed in Koval scores [mean difference, -4.13 (95% CI, -4.56 to -3.70) vs -3.22 (95% CI, -3.86 to -2.61), P = .016] and FAC scores [mean difference, 3.37 (95% CI, 3.01 to 3.72) vs 2.56 (95% CI, 2.10 to 3.02), P = .006]. At the 12-month follow-up point, this group also showed higher rates of independent ambulation [53 (76.8%) vs 28 (56.0%), P = .016] and recovery to prefracture ambulatory status [56 (81.2%) vs 31 (62.0%), P = .020] than the conventional group.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The FIRM demonstrated superior effectiveness compared with conventional rehabilitation in improving ambulation and other functional outcomes in older adults with hip fracture. This finding provides valuable insights for managing comprehensive multidisciplinary postoperative care for hip fractures in South Korea and beyond.

Perioperative adverse cardiac events predict post-discharge mortality after fragility hip fracture in elderly patients without cardiovascular disease

Background

Perioperative adverse cardiac events (PACEs) in elderly patients with hip fractures are associated with perioperative mortality. We investigated the relationship of PACE with post-discharge mortality and further explored whether it differs between patients with and without cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from patients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent fragility hip fracture surgery from September 2016 to December 2021. PACE was defined as a composite of congestive heart failure, cardiogenic shock, myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery, arrhythmic event, ischemic stroke, or acute pulmonary thromboembolism during hospitalization or within the 30-day postoperative period. Patients with 30-day mortality were excluded. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality after hospital discharge.

Results

Of the 446 patients (133 patients in the CVD group and 313 patients in the non-CVD group), 14.8% experienced PACE, and overall mortality during a median of 15.9 months (interquartile range: 6.6-27.0 months) was 20.9% [CVD (26.3%) vs. non-CVD (18.5%), P = 0.064]. Patients with PACE demonstrated a significantly worse survival rate than those without PACE in both groups (all log-rank P < 0.05). After adjustment for confounders, PACE was an independent predictor of mortality in the overall population [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.69-5.35, P < 0.001]. Its prognostic impact was significant in patients without CVD (HR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.35-5.38, P = 0.005) but not in those with CVD (HR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.41-3.50, P = 0.735).

Conclusions

PACE was associated with increased post-discharge mortality after fragility hip fracture, especially in elderly patients without CVD.

Vitality index predicts walking independence in patients with hip fracture: A retrospective study

This study aimed to determine if the vitality index predicts walking independence in inpatients with hip fractures and calculate a cutoff value. This retrospective cohort study included inpatients with hip fracture (N = 133). Logistic regression analysis was performed with walking independence at discharge and vitality index as the dependent and independent variables, respectively, and age, Berg balance scale (BBS), knee extension muscle strength, and revised Hasegawa's dementia scale at admission as covariates. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to calculate the cutoff value. Logistic regression analysis showed that the vitality index at admission was significantly associated with walking independence at discharge, even after adjusting for covariates (P < .01). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.82, and the cutoff value of the vitality index at admission was 6.5 points (sensitivity, 78%; specificity, 83%). Our results suggest that the vitality index at admission can be used to predict walking independence in inpatients with hip fractures. In particular, the vitality index score ≥ 7 points at admission is a convenient index for predicting walking independence.

Effectiveness of home-based exercise for functional rehabilitation in older adults after hip fracture surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess effectiveness of home-based exercise compared with control interventions for functional rehabilitation in elderly patients after hip fracture surgery. Comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Clinicaltrails.gov to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Standard mean difference (SMD) and risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. The certainty of evidence of each outcome was assessed by using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. A total of 28 articles reporting 21 unique RCTs (n = 2470) were finally included. Compared with control interventions, home-based exercise significantly improved Berg balance scale (BBS, SMD = 0.28, 95%CI: 0.03 to 0.53, P = 0.030), timed-up-and-go test (TUG, SMD = -0.28, 95%CI: -0.50 to -0.07, P = 0.009), Short Fort-36 physical component score (SF-36 PCS, SMD = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.28 to 0.70, P<0.001), and knee extensor strength (SMD = 0.23, 95%CI: 0.09 to 0.37, P = 0.001). No significant improvement was observed in gait speed, 6-minute walking test, short physical performance battery performance (SPPB), activities of daily living (ADL), or fear of falling in the home exercise group. Risk of adverse events, including emergency department visits, hospital readmissions, and falls, did not differ between both groups. According to GRADE, the overall certainty of evidence was moderate for usual gait speed, SPPB, ADL, fear of falling, and SF-36 PCS, and was low or very low for the other outcomes. Our meta-analysis demonstrated home-based exercise had positive effect on physical function after hip fracture surgery. Home-based rehabilitation might be recommended for rehabilitation of fractured patients after hospital discharge.

Perceived usability and acceptability of the My-Hip Fracture risk communication tool from the perspective of academic clinicians

Objective

We evaluated the usability and acceptability of My-Hip Fracture (My-HF), a web application that assists providers in delivering individualized prognostic information to patients hospitalized for hip fracture (HF).

Methods

We observed a sample of 16 clinicians as they navigated My-HF. We then administered a structured questionnaire and conducted semi-structured interviews to explore participants' opinions about the app's content and the feasibility of incorporating the app into clinical workflows.

Results

Clinicians required a median of 2-min and 45 s to navigate through the app. Nearly all participants indicated that My-HF was easy to use and would be useful for their practice. About half of participants had suggestions for additional useful peri-operative content. A few expressed concerns about communicating mortality risk. About half expressed concerns about how My-HF might be integrated into existing clinical workflows.

Conclusions

Though clinicians rated My-HF high on usefulness in a structured usability questionnaire, qualitative interviews identified a number of suggestions for optimizing integration into clinical practice. Creating shared goals, establishing a decision coach, and developing a framework of communication across care settings could facilitate integration of My-HF by the multidisciplinary HF team.

Innovation

My-Hip Fracture is a unique web application which provides personalized prognostic information to patients and families after HF. My-HF has potential to facilitate informed decision-making between clinicians and patients, but adaptations will be necessary to enhance its usability.

Fecal microbiota transplantation from postmenopausal osteoporosis human donors accelerated bone mass loss in mice

Objectives

To investigate the effect of gut microbiota from postmenopausal osteoporosis patients on bone mass in mice.

Methods

Fecal samples were collected from postmenopausal women with normal bone mass (Con, n=5) and postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (Op, n=5). Microbial composition was identified by shallow shotgun sequencing. Then fecal samples were transplanted into pseudo-sterile mice previously treated with antibiotics for 4 weeks. These mice were categorized into two groups: the Vehicle group (n=7) received fecal samples from individuals with normal bone mass, and the FMT group (n=7) received fecal samples from individuals with osteoporosis. After 8 weeks, bone mass, intestinal microbial composition, intestinal permeability and inflammation were assessed, followed by a correlation analysis.

Results

The bone mass was significantly reduced in the FMT group. Microbiota sequencing showed that Shannon index (p < 0.05) and Simpson index (p < 0.05) were significantly increased in Op groups, and β diversity showed significant differences. the recipient mice were similar. linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis of mice showed that Halobiforma, Enterorhabdus, Alistipes, and Butyricimonas were significantly enriched in the FMT group. Lachnospiraceae and Oscillibacter were significantly enriched in the Vehicle group. H&E staining of intestinal tissues showed obvious intestinal mucosal injury in mice. Intestinal immunohistochemistry showed that the expression of Claudin and ZO-1 in the intestinal tissue of the FMT group mice was decreased. The FITC-Dextran (FD-4) absorption rate and serum soluble CD14 (sCD14) content were increased in FMT mice. Correlation analysis showed that these dominant genera were significantly associated with bone metabolism and intestinal permeability, and were associated with the enrichment of specific enzymes. Serum and bone tissue inflammatory cytokines detection showed that the expression of TNF-α and IL-17A in the FMT group were significantly increased.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings suggested gut microbiota from postmenopausal osteoporosis patients accelerate bone mass loss in mice. Aberrant gut microbiota might play a causal role in the process of bone mass loss mediated by inflammation after the destruction of the intestinal barrier.

Correlation between admission hyperglycemia and postoperative pneumonia after hip fracture surgery: A propensity score-matched study

The association between admission hyperglycemia and postoperative pneumonia is unclear in hip fracture patients. We investigated the relationship between admission hyperglycemia and postoperative pneumonia after hip fracture surgery. This retrospective study analyzed data from 1,267 geriatric patients admitted for hip fractures. Patients were categorized into normoglycemic (< 6.10 mmol/L) and hyperglycemic (≥ 6.10 mmol/L) groups based on admission blood glucose levels. Multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to control for potential confounding variables and estimate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for postoperative pneumonia (POP). We also examined the dose-dependent link between admission blood glucose and the likelihood of developing POP. Further analyses evaluated whether admission hyperglycemia has differing impacts on POP outcomes among hip fracture patients without diabetes (NDM) versus those with diabetes (DM). Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the influence of other factors on the relationship between admission blood glucose and POP occurrence. Patients with admission hyperglycemia had significantly higher rates of POP compared to normoglycemic patients, both before (13.2% vs. 4.8%) and after (10.1% vs. 5.8%) PSM. Admission hyperglycemia is an independent risk factor of POP (OR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.42-4.92, p = 0.002). The association persisted after PSM(OR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.35-3.86, p = 0.016). Additionally, higher blood glucose levels correlated with a greater likelihood of developing POP. A dose-response relationship was observed between blood glucose levels and the risk of POP. Non-diabetic group patients with hyperglycemia were at higher risk of POP than diabetic group patients with hyperglycemia. Finally, the relationship between hyperglycemia and increased POP risk is modulated and influenced by the ASA classification of the patient. Admission hyperglycemia is an independent risk factor for POP after hip fracture surgery in the elderly. There is a dose-response relationship between admission blood glucose and the occurrence of POP, which is more significant in non-diabetic patients than diabetic patients.

Introduction of enhanced weekend physiotherapy for patients with hip fracture is associated with improved early mobility outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy (EWP) for patients with hip fracture was associated with improved clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed all previously ambulatory adults admitted with hip fracture to our tertiary hospital, comparing 'usual' ('control') care (09/19-03/20) to EWP (09/20-03/21). Outcomes included Day-7 mobility ≥20 m (primary), additional mobility measures, specified postoperative complications, new residential facility placement, acute length-of-stay (LOS) and 30-day death.

RESULTS

Amongst 235 eligible patients (128 control, 107 EWP), 66% were female, mean age was 80.4 years (SD 10.5), 20% from residential care and 49% (114/235) were mobilising without aid at baseline (no between-group differences; all p ≥ .20). Median acute LOS was 10 days (IQR 6-15), total hospital LOS was 21 days (IQR 12-37) and 3% (n = 6) died by Day 30. Median Day-7 distance mobilised was 25 m (IQR 7-50) with EWP versus 10 m (3-40) (p = .06). No EWP patients developed pressure injury (0 vs. 6, p = .02); other outcomes were similar between groups. Adjusting for age, residence, baseline cognitive impairment, American Society of Anesthesiologist score and preadmission mobilisation without aids, EWP was independently associated with increased likelihood of mobilising ≥20 m at Day 7 (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.04-3.23, p = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy was associated with improvement in early mobility, but not other outcomes assessed. These data would be strengthened by randomised controlled trial data exploring more intense physiotherapy, cost-benefit analysis and patient experience measures.

Cost-effectiveness and budget impact of cement augmentation for the fixation of unstable trochanteric fractures from a European perspective: Cost-effectiveness and budget impact of cement augmentation in Europe

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures have a high patient burden and mortality rate, particularly following revision surgery. Cement augmentation of cephalomedullary nails has been shown to lower the risk of cut-out, aiming to reduce the need and expense of revision surgeries. The aim of this study was to assess the economic impact of cement augmentation for the fixation of trochanteric hip fractures in fragile, elderly patients, across a range of European countries (UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, and France), from both a provider (hospital) and a payer perspective.

METHOD

The budget impact (hospital perspective) and cost-effectiveness (payer perspective) analyses were informed by clinical outcomes from a meta-analysis published in 2021, additional published literature, registries, and clinical experts. Economic inputs included length of stay and operating time for the hospital perspective, revision surgery, outpatient, and rehabilitation days costs for the payer perspective. Outcomes included the breakeven cost below which using cement augmentation would begin to generate cost savings for the hospital, and potential cost savings for the payer with incremental costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess model uncertainty.

RESULTS

From a hospital perspective, the breakeven cost below which the hospital would start saving money using cement augmentation was £491 (UK), €1490 (Spain), €1075 (Italy), €852 (Germany), and €834 (France) per patient, driven by reduced length of hospital stay. From a payer perspective, cost savings were £1675 (UK), €2202 (Spain), €993 (Italy), €944 (Germany), and €892 (France) per patient, mainly driven by fewer revision surgeries. Payer cost savings, coupled with incremental QALY gain of 0.004 across all regions, led to cement augmentation being the dominant strategy. These budget impact and cost-effectiveness results were rigorously tested in sensitivity analyses and were found to be robust.

CONCLUSION

These models support the wider adoption of cement augmentation to reduce the healthcare system costs associated with length of stay and revision surgery. These results provide useful information to providers, payers, and policymakers to ultimately influence choice surrounding the 'gold-standard' treatment of an unstable trochanteric fracture following low energy trauma.

Prediction of Fragility Fractures and Mortality in a Cohort of Geriatric Patients

BACKGROUND

Risk factors of refracture after fragility fractures include osteoporosis, female gender and advanced age among others. We hypothesized that the assessment of functionality, muscle health and nutrition status contribute to the risk prediction for further fractures and death.

METHODS

We assessed 334 patients admitted to the department of acute geriatrics for sociodemographic data, bone fragility, selected laboratory tests, body composition and data on functionality using the comprehensive geriatric assessment. Patients had follow-ups until the occurrence of further fractures or death. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and pulse echo measurements were performed to assess bone mineral density. Fracture risk was assessed using the FRAX score and muscle strength according to published guidelines on sarcopenia.

RESULTS

The mean age was 81 years (70-95), and 82.3% (275/334) were women. An incidence of 10.4% (35/334) new fragility fractures was observed within 24 months, and the mortality rate was 12.2% (41/334). A significantly higher rate of further fractures was associated with lower BMI (body mass index) (HR 0.925, CI 0.872-0.98; p = 0.009), lower parathyroid hormone levels (HR 0.986, CI 0.973-0.998; p = 0.026) and with the diagnosis of osteoporosis (HR 2.546, CI 1.192-5.438; p = 0.016). No significant associations were present in patients with previous fractures, with higher age, higher FRAX scores, sarcopenia, in women, sarcopenic obesity, frail patients, lower grip strength, lower walking speed, lower Barthel index or lower DI (density index) values. The predictive power for further fractures was 10.7% higher adding osteosarcopenia, BMI and parathyroid hormone levels to standard assessment parameters osteoporosis, age and the status of previous fractures. Mortality was significantly higher with advanced age (HR 1.101, CI 1.052-1.151; p < 0.001), in men (HR 6.464, CI 3.141-13.305; p < 0.001), in smokers (p = 0.002), higher FRAX score (HR 1.039, CI 1.009-1.070; p = 0.010), lower renal function (HR 0.987, CI 0.976-0.997; p = 0.010), lower Tinetti test scores (HR 0.943, CI 0.900-0.987; p = 0.012), lower walking speed (HR 0.084, CI 0.018-0.382; p = 0.001), lower hand grip (HR 0.876, CI 0.836-0.919; p < 0.001) and lower Barthel index scores (HR 0.984, CI 0.971-0.997; p = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of geriatric patients, the addition of BMI, low parathyroid hormone levels and osteosarcopenia increases the predictive power for further fractures by 10.7%. These parameters are a valuable addition to the standard assessment parameters age and history of sustained fractures. Mortality is partly associated with potentially treatable functional parameters.

Enhanced Nutritional and Functional Recovery in Femur Fracture Patients Post-Surgery: Preliminary Evidence of Muscle-Targeted Nutritional Support in Real-World Practice

Background/Objectives: To describe the effects of muscle-targeted oral nutritional supplementation (MT-ONS) on nutrition, functional capacity, and other health outcomes in patients after femur fracture surgery. Methods: A prospective, open-label, single-centre study was conducted. Patients aged 80+ post-femur fracture were recruited. They were assessed at baseline and after 90 days with MT-ONS, 100% whey protein enriched with leucine and vitamin D. Demographics, clinical and nutritional status (MNA®-SF), functional capacity [Barthel Index (BI), Lawton and Brody (LB) scale], muscle strength (dynamometry), cognition [Global Deterioration Scale (GDS)], tolerability, and satisfaction data were collected. Descriptive statistics were performed. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: Thirty-one patients (74% women, mean age 87 ± 3.99 years) were enrolled. At baseline, 32% were malnourished and 65% were at risk. After ≥90 days of MT-ONS, malnutrition decreased to 13% and well-nourishment increased to 32%. Ninety percent gained weight, with significant muscle strength improvements (+2 kg, p < 0.001). Eighty-one percent achieved a BI score ≥ 60 points [mean 84.8 (±17.82)]. BI score improvements correlated with higher baseline muscle strength (rho = 0.413, p = 0.021) and better nutritional status (rho = 0.464, p = 0.009). The mean LB score was 4.84 (±2.26). Improvements correlated with the pre-fracture BI score (rho = 0.475, p = 0.007). Positive correlations were noted between nutritional status, muscle strength, and functional outcomes. Cognition remained stable (GDS = 1 in 67.7% patients). Tolerability and satisfaction with MT-ONS were high at 90%. Conclusions: MT-ONS, 100% whey protein enriched with leucine and vitamin D, for ≥90 days enhances nutritional status and functional recovery in patients after femur fracture surgery.